DAVIDSON WILDCATS
 Coach: Bob McKillop |  Record: 20-10

 
Overview: A ticket to the Big Dance was the very real expectation for this program a year ago following a 16-0 regular season mark in Southern Conference play. But a loss in the conference tourney sent the Wildcats to the NIT. Fast forward a year, and Davidson gets to eat at the adult table following a 80-55 thrashing of Chattanooga in the Southern Conference tourney final. This team will knock down a few from long range, nailing nearly 10 a game during the regular season.

Potential Difference Maker: Brendan Winters is the team's offensive star, but it's point guard Kenny Grant who really makes this team go. He's had five games of double-digit assist totals this season, and his 6.6 assists per contest ranks an impressive fourth nationally. If he can help provide Winters and forward Ian Johnson with great scoring opportunities, this could be a repeat of the 2002 NCAA Tournament, when the Wildcats gave Ohio State all it could handle in a 4 vs. 13 game before falling by five.

On Offense: They are very sound on the offensive end. They don’t often beat themselves with ill-advised passes and poor decisions. They do a nice job with their motion offense. You will see a lot of four-in one out. 6-foot-9 Ian Johnson will step out and shoot the three. All five spots on the floor can score.

On Defense: Expect man-to-man about 85% of the time. They will zone a little to change it up, but they are primarily man-to-man. They won’t over-extend, as they lack real athleticism.

Strength: Senior leadership. The Wildcats were picked by many to win the Southern Conference in the preseason, due in large part to that senior-laden group on the floor. Their confidence, experience and patience on the offensive end make them a potentially tough matchup.

Weakness: They are not very athletic. Star player Brendan Winters is more of a catch-and-shoot guy. Athletic teams can make it difficult for him to get good looks.

Keys to Success: Balance. Winters can put up some numbers, but the Wildcats are most effective when everyone on the floor contributes.

How to Beat Them: Make them play fast. They are much more comfortable running their motion in the halfcourt. Make Winters put the ball on the deck and beat you with the dribble. Offensively you don’t want to settle for jump shots. You will get looks against them, but you don’t want to become too reliant. Attack them in the post.