SYRACUSE (-1) over Georgetown: I was going with Syracuse even before this line came out, expecting to be getting a couple points and encouraging you to jump on the money line, but apparently losing both meetings against the Hoyas, by a combined 33 points, doesn’t factor into the equation — nor does it in my pick. Having been at the Garden the past few days, and years, it never ceases to amaze me how Syracuse fans take it over and create a miniCarrier Dome, while John Thompson Jr. and Dikembe Mutombo are about the only noteworthy crowd presence for Georgetown. The Orange have finally shaken off their struggles of the past three weeks, shooting with the confidence of the team that started 18-1. In the two losses to Georgetown, James Southerland, who has hit 12 of 15 3 pointers the past two days, shot 5 of 22. That ain’t happening again.
Michigan (-2) over Wisconsin: The Wolverines lost their lone meeting with the Badgers this season, falling 65-62 in overtime after Wisconsin hit a halfcourt shot to force overtime at home. Michigan, much like Syracuse, spoke extensively after yesterday’s win about relishing an opportunity to exact revenge. Wisconsin will be playing its first game of the Big Ten Tournament, usually more of a detriment than a benefit in a battle of evenly matched teams. Motivation and momentum are more than enough reasons to go with Michigan.
Record: 6-1
2011-12 Record: 48-26-1
hkussoy@bypost.com