Saturday, April 01, 2000
North Carolina vs. Florida: The keys
BY MIKE DECOURCY
The Cincinnati Enquirer
1. North Carolina's approach to the Florida press. Duke and Oklahoma State both were conned into taking quick shots after breaking through pressure. UNC needs to force the Gators to play defense for extended periods.
2. Defending Brendan Haywood. If UF positions its big men in front of Haywood after watching tapes, the Gators deserve to go home. Haywood isn't dangerous if he catches the ball with a defender at his back. It's only when he's fronted and the ball is entered over the top of the defense that Haywood can catch and dunk.
3. Joseph Forte's poise. Carolina's shooting guard has played beyond his years in getting to the Final Four. There's no way the Heels can win without him scoring.
4. Florida's dribble penetration. Ed Cota is not the greatest defensive point guard, and the Gators have done significant damage to defenses by driving the ball into the lane. Carolina may be forced to play zone.
5. Does Mike Miller let the Gators lose? This could be his final college game. Miller has game-breaking ability, and he must take over if Florida is in trouble late. Whether it's Miller or the system, there are times he blends into the crowd.
DeCourcy's prediction: North Carolina 76, Florida 72.
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