College basketball reporter Marcus Fuller will get about a dozen weeks this winter to predict the four teams coming to Minneapolis in April. Here's his first shot:
Freshmen-led Duke, consistent Michigan highlight Marcus Fuller's first Final Four projection
January 4, 2019 at 2:51AM
Duke (11-1)
The Blue Devils sent the biggest shockwave when they demolished Kentucky by 34 points in the season opener. Coach K's fab freshmen Zion Williamson, R.J. Barrett, Cam Reddish and Tre Jones seem destined for U.S. Bank Stadium.
Virginia (11-0)
The Cavaliers have used the motivation of being the first 1-16 upset in history last March to get off to a strong start this season. Kyle Guy, De'Andre Hunter and Ty Jerome are proving again to arguably be the best backcourt in the nation.
Michigan (13-0)
The early favorite for Coach of the Year has to be John Beilein, as the Wolverines lost three starters from an NCAA runner-up but possibly became a better team. The Wolverines play suffocating defense (No. 4 nationally in efficiency).
Tennessee (11-1)
Tennessee is tough and led by bruising senior forward Grant Williams, the reigning Southeastern Conference MVP. Fellow tough guy Admiral Schofield is a chiseled 6-6, 240-pound guard who can knock down clutch three-pointers.
about the writer
Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson and offensive guard Dalton Risner were not activated to the roster before kickoff of the team’s game in Los Angeles. The Rams activated receiver Puka Nacua.
