From Brian's favorite conference comes another potential bracket buster, the Monarchs of Old Dominion. This will be ODU's 10th trip to the dance and if history is an indicator, they'll be a tough out. In 1995, led by the indomitable Odell Hodge, the 14th seeded Monarchs upended the 3rd seeded Villanova Wildcats. They've also played teams tough in their last 3 appearances.
As for this season, ODU currently stands 30th in RPI. Their season includes a win at Georgetown. Save a loss to George Mason, all their losses have been against top 100 RPI teams.
ODU hangs its hat on playing tough defense. The Monarchs currently stand 6th in scoring defense, 42nd in FG% defense, 3rd in rebounding and don't foul (18th). KenPom likes them, too. They are 18th in AdjD.
They are limited offesnively. They don't score much (203rd) and unlike some bracket busters, they don't rely on 3 pointers at all making only 4.5 per game (306th). They're okay protecting the ball, terrible at the line (288th) but the rebound margin indicates a propensity for second chance opportunities.
Like other teams profiled, ODU is very well-balanced. They only have one guy averaging over 10 points a game in Gerald Lee (14.8). They do have 5 guys that average over 4 boards a game.
They'll be a tough out for whoever gets them and won't be intimidated.
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