The Final Four is set to showcase the dominance of big men in college basketball this year, with Purdue’s Zach Edey, North Carolina State’s DJ Burns Jr., and Connecticut’s Donovan Clingan leading the way. Edey, the reigning national player of the year, has Purdue in the Final Four for the first time since 1980, while Burns has N.C. State in the Final Four for the first time since 1983. Clingan, standing at 7-2, had a standout performance in the Elite Eight and will face off against an Alabama team with no player taller than 6-11.
In a separate incident, racist incidents directed towards the Utah women’s basketball team in Idaho have been under investigation by the Coeur d’Alene Police Department. An audio recording containing a racial slur has been found, and authorities are working to determine the context and conduct associated with its use.
In coaching news, Eric Musselman has been hired as the new head coach for the Southern California men’s basketball team, replacing Andy Enfield. Musselman, who led Arkansas to three NCAA Tournament appearances, will be introduced at a news conference on Friday. Meanwhile, David Riley is taking over as the head coach at Washington State, facing the challenge of leading the team in a new conference.
On the women’s basketball front, Caitlin Clark of Iowa was named the AP women’s basketball Player of the Year, while Dawn Staley of South Carolina was honored as the AP women’s basketball Coach of the Year for the second time. Staley led South Carolina to an undefeated season and back-to-back Final Four appearances.
The Final Four promises to deliver excitement and magic as UConn looks to defend their title amidst a challenging journey to Phoenix. Stay tuned for more updates on the thrilling conclusion to the college basketball season.