NIT 2012 Scores: 5 Greatest X-Factors Heading Into Semifinals

The NIT semifinals, or final four, have arrived and the teams that are still breathing have all benefited from outstanding play by a singular individual.

In Minnesota’s case, that man has been Rodney Williams.

He has poured in at least 20 points in all three NIT victories and is absolutely shooting the lights out. The junior has made a ridiculous 26-of-38 shots from the floor in the tournament. Williams has assumed the leadership role on the Golden Gophers, who are now my pick to win the entire thing.

Who can stop Williams and the Golden Gophers? These four essential X-Factors:

Tony Wroten, G - Washington

The Huskies' fabulous freshman is incredibly difficult to figure out.

One game he is shooting 1-of-5 for two points against Northwestern. The next he lights up Oregon for 22 while getting to the free throw line 14 times.

When Wroten is driving to the basket and drawing the contact the Huskies offense is able to open up and create ample opportunities for the big’s down low.

The Huskies need Wroten to ensure the Golden Gophers defensive doesn’t get comfortable.

Josh Owens, C - Stanford

The Cardinal has to get a big contribution from the paint if they plan on beating UMass and it starts with the fifth-year senior Owens.

Owens is the longest tenure player on the team and while he is a bit undersized at 6’8’’, his 240-pound frame allows him to be a bulldozer in the post.

If Stanford can get a similar game out of Owens like the one he put up last Wednesday against Nevada (15 points, 62 percent shooting), the Cardinal will be just fine.

Chaz Williams, G - UMass

The sophomore playmaker is averaging 24 points in the tournament, the most of any player still alive.

He is doing so thanks in large part to an 8-of-15 mark from behind the arc.

With his dribble-drive ability and efficient shooting, Williams can single-handedly lead his team to the title.

Aziz Ndiaye, C - Washington

While the Huskies have plenty of scorers to lead the offense, there is no question that N’Diaye is the head-honcho on defense.

He is leading the team with 7.3 rebound per game and is the main post defender. With the Golden Gophers size inside, he has to be physical and hold his own on the glass or the Huskies will be getting bounced on Tuesday night. 

Click here for the updated NIT bracket. 

Follow Eric Ball on Twitter.