No. 1 Kentucky vs. No. 3 Notre Dame

Why Kentucky will win: Kentucky is shrugging teams off like they’re not even there during this tournament. The Wildcats are as dominant as any team has been in recent memory, and they can play any style. UK kills you with its size and versatility. Forwards Karl-Anthony Towns, Trey Lyles and Willie Cauley-Stein are rim protectors of the highest order, but they all are fantastic cutting to the bucket and can make adjustments with the ball. Aaron and Andrew Harrison are both experienced and love the limelight, and guard Tyler Ulis is a playmaker who has the quickness to break down anyone off the dribble. Oh, and the Wildcats are a fantastic defensive team that can shut down anyone.

Why Notre Dame will win: The Fighting Irish aren’t the deepest team in the tournament, but they get a lot out of their starters. Jerian Grant is the go-to guy, someone who can put the ball on the floor and get to the bucket or set up his teammates. He has great perimeter quickness. Forwards Zach Auguste and Pat Connaughton are versatile, and Connaughton, in particular, is the hustling, leave-it-all-out-there guy who makes an impact every time out. Guards Demetrius Jackson and Steve Vasturia can make their presence felt, as well.

What will happen: Kentucky wears teams down with its quickness, and it relies on knowledge it can depend on being the better-conditioned team. Controlling the tempo will be everything for Notre Dame. With its lack of depth, ND has to turn this one into a grinder, one that becomes a defensive struggle. UK’s size and athleticism, is going to be too much, and true to form, the Wildcats will pull away late.

Prediction:Kentucky 77, Notre Dame 65