John Calipari has never seen a C-USA tournament with so manycontenders.
"Last year, there were three teams that had a chance to win (theconference tournament)," Calipari said. "Right now, we have seventeams that can win."
Excluding the Tigers, that leaves six other teams that pose alegitimate threat in Cincinnati.
Antonio Burks gave his input on the strengths and weaknesses ofthe conference contenders.
Who does Burks think poses the toughest match up for the Tigers?You might be surprised.
Cincinnati
Most of the Tigers would love a rematch with the Bearcats, afterlosing last weekend in Cincinnati. A rematch is plausible if bothteams win their first games. The Bearcats would be at home, but theTigers are not intimidated.
Keys to containing Cincinnati are keeping the Bearcats off theoffensive glass and containing sixth man of the year TonyBobbit.
Strengths: "The big guys play really physical. They'reaggressive."
Weaknesses: "Their point guard play. They don't handle the ballvery well."
Previous result: Tigers lost 83-79 at Cincinnati.
Louisville
Injuries and inconsistent play have plagued Louisville all year.When on, the Cardinals are as dangerous as anyone in the country.The Tigers ability to handle the ball would be key in a rematch
Strengths: "Defensive pressure and depth. They cause a lot ofturnovers."
Weaknesses: "Their big man. They don't score insideconsistently."
Previous result: Won 62-58 at Memphis; Lost 66-60 atLouisville.
DePaul
Burks said that DePaul presents more match up problems for theTigers than any other team. They're balanced, athletic and sound onboth ends of the floor.
Strengths: "Their whole team plays well together."
Weaknesses: "I don't see any real weaknesses."
Previous result: Lost 82-73 at DePaul.
UAB
Another pressure team, the key to beating the Blazers is goodball handling and patience at the offensive end.
Strengths: "Full court defensive pressure. They can force a lotof turnovers."
Weaknesses: "Their half court defense can break down attimes."
Previous result: Won 73-66 at Memphis.
Charlotte
According to Burks, the best match up for the Tigers. Charlottecan be out rebounded.
Strengths: "Their big men and their guard play is solid."
Weaknesses: "Defensively, the play as individuals, their teamdefense isn't very good."
Previous result: Won 91-69 at Memphis.
Marquette
Marquette shoots well. Holding them to one shot is key.Shadowing Travis Deiner and Steve Novak are also key.
Strengths: "Their point guard is good. They shoot prettywell."
Weaknesses: "They play poor transition defense. You can get outand run on them."
