BIG SATURDAY
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Here is how you can tell Saturday's UConn- Pittsburgh game is a big one. Thursday's media availability after practice had what must have been the largest turnout of the season. All of the beat writers, three TV stations, columnists, writers from NBC Sports and the New York Daily News, and even the flagship radio station (which doesn't normally get out to practice). All looking for the angles that will decide the game and perhaps, the Big East regular season championship.
Of course, everyone wanted to talk to Hasheem Thabeet about his matchup with DeJuan Blair, which as you all know, didn't go in the Huskies favor on February 16th. Hash took the high ride, saying that game was in the past... But you know, it has eaten at him since that night. Thabeet can't let Blair establish position in the blocks, especially in the lane. Of course, there is a rule called three seconds but that didn't appear to be in the books on the 16th.
But, it's not just Hash. The perimeter players have to do a better job pressuring the ball and making it difficult for Pittsburgh to get the ball to Blair. That is also a big factor in the matchup.
I also think Hash has to put pressure on Blair on the defensive end. Take the ball at him, try to get him in foul trouble. The games that Pittsburgh has lost are all games where Blair was in foul trouble. If UConn can get him on the bench via fouls, advantage Huskies.
UConn has done a great job on the road all season and tomorrow will be the toughest, nastiest road crowd yet. Connecticut can't let Pittsburgh get off to a quick start, thus enabling the "Oakland Zoo" to get even rowdier. Poise has been a critical aspect to the Huskies 13-0 record away from Connecticut, it will be of the utmost importance tomorrow.
Often, a game like this isn't decided by the primetime players but by the guys who lurk in the shadows. Guys like Craig Austrie and Stanley Robinson for UConn and Jermaine Dixon and Gilbert Brown for Pittsburgh.
It should be a fun afternoon. Our coverage starts at 11:30 and goes right thru the post game show.
Enjoy!
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