College hoops fans filling out their brackets are surely looking to pick the right upsets so they can brag about their clairvoyance. While some March Madness players like to close their eyes and pick at random, others would like to be a little more educated in picking their Cinderellas. Here at Sports World News, we can help you with that.
The No. 13 seed Harvard Crimson are an excellent candidate to try on the glass slipper at the Big Dance, and here's why.
Harvard relies on a surprisingly stingy defense to curtail its opponents, and that D makes up for an overall lack of height and athleticism. Two of the Crimson's top three scorers, Wesley Saunders and Steve Moundou-Missi are among near the top in defensive rating as well. Harvard's players go two ways, so their lack of depth doesn't hurt them so much with do-it-all players.
Saunders in particular is a handful for any team in the country. He will enter the matchup vs. North Carolina averaging 16.3 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists. He also is swiping nearly two steals a night. Saunders shoots 44 percent from the field, and can threaten teams from long range, hitting 41 percent of his 3-point attempts.
Harvard's lack of offensive punch beyond Saunders is troubling. No other Crimson player averaged even double-digit scoring this season, and they ranked 260th in the nation in points per game (64.2). Their lack of height may also present an issue against the Tar Heels, who are second in the nation in rebounding.
UNC is prone to offensive droughts though, and lapses of attention on defense. That's where Harvard's defense can shine, as well as Saunders' well-rounded game. The Tar Heels will be a tough out, but do not be surprised if Harvard is moving on.
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