Breaking Down The Old Spice Classic

Arguably the strongest preseason tournament of the 2008-2009 season, the Old Spice Classic has a potential of seven tournament teams (I am leaving out Wichita State).  If you have any free time over the weekend, this is the tournament you don't want to miss.

With help from ESPN, the Old Spice Classic has replaced the Maui Invitational as the ultimate feast of basketball on Thanksgiving weekend.  

First Round Matchups

Tennessee vs. Siena (Thursday, 12PM)

Bruce Pearl looks to lead his Vols past the Sweet 16 in March but first, will have to focus all of his attention to last years sweetheart in this excellent first round matchup.

Wichita State vs. Georgetown (Thursday, 2PM)

Greg Monroe and the Hoyas should have no trouble disposing of the weakest team in Orlando.  However, come second round, they will need to bring their A game.  

Maryland vs. Michigan State (Thursday, 7PM)

Tom Izzo has one of his most talented teams in recent memory and if someone can step up to replace Drew Neitzel, the Spartans are just as dangerous as any team in the country,

Oklahoma State vs. Gonzaga (Thursday, 9PM)

Speaking of dangerous, Mark Few has his most talented team ever in Spokane and this year, he is seeking that elusive Final Four berth.

Predictions

Second Round

Siena vs. Georgetown

I know its a stretch but the Saints return everyone from a team that ripped Vandy in the opening round.  However, the fun ends here as Georgetown has to much depth and talent to go down in the semis.  It will be closer than you think.  

Gonzaga vs. Michigan State

The best potential matchup of the tournament brings together two up tempo squads both led by excellent coaches in Mark Few and Tom Izzo.  If the Zags are able to come together as team, they have enough talent to overcome the Spartans.

Finals

Gonzaga vs. Georgetown

Gonzaga takes its talent and capitalizes on the experience they have with national attention.  Georgetown will slow down  the fast pace of the Bulldogs but on the offensive end, they will not have much of a response.  The Zags bring the trophy back to the Kennel.

Consolation

Michigan State vs. Siena

Michigan State ends Sienas bid to take down another big time oppenent.  Siena will still be a dangerous team to play come March.

Players to Watch

Austin Daye, Gonzaga

The 6-foot-11 sophomore draws similarities to Kevin Durant of Texas.  Gonzaga's success will hinge on his ability to help Josh Heytvelt dominate the paint.

Greg Monroe, Georgetown

The highly recruited freshman will need to come up big on the offensive end if the Hoyas expect big things in Orlando.

Kenny Hasbrouck, Siena

The Saint's strongest player will be key to the success Siena hopes to have in 2008-2009.  If he can repeat the 30-point performance he had in the first round against Vanderbilt, Siena will surely have an opportunity to be this years Davidson.

Watch it over Thanksgiving weekend on ESPN and ESPN2.