Two legends were on the TruTV broadcast for Texas and NC State in the first four portions of the NCAA Tournament. Charles Barkley and Dick Vitale were chopping it up about the game and the bracket. When they got to the possibility of Wisconsin vs. Arkansas in the round of 32, there was a disagreement about which team would advance.
Dick Vitale started with, "Wisconsin vs. Arkansas in the West, watch out, Mr. Calipari, they're good!" But Barkley was less impressed with the Badgers and didn't jump on the Wisconsin wagon. Instead, Barkley dumped cold water on the Badgers with his comments.
Vitale speaking on the Badgers said, "Wisconsin is dangerous and well-coached as well." Barkley didn't even let Vitale finish before he jumped in with, "Arkansas is going to beat Wisconsin. Wisconsin has a good team, but I'm going to go with Calipari in that game. I think Arkansas is going to win."
Wisconsin vs. Arkansas is not even a real game and yet it's already one of the most talked about
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Barkley and Vitale aren't the only analysts or even fans of the tournament that have circled the potential matchup of Arkansas and Wisconsin. There is some real excitement to see two of the most dangerous and high-scoring offenses go head-to-head. Not to mention two of the best guards facing off with Darius Acuff and Nick Boyd.
It's a highly anticipated game, and yet, it's important in March not to look ahead in the bracket. There's no certainty in the field. Every seed has lost and is capable of losing. Wisconsin should know that better than anyone as the No. 5 seed. The Badgers have been in this position five times and have only advanced out of it once. That's not ideal. High Point won't be planning to roll over for the Badgers.
Arkansas also has its hands full with a tough Hawaii defense. While both Arkansas and Wisconsin should and are predicted to win, the team can't look ahead. The fans and analysts can, but not the players or coaches.