UConn trust me here

INDIANAPOLIS — It’s been a long road to the Elite Eight. It’s taken a lot of hard work. I’ve had ups and downs. I’ve faced a lot of adversity. I’ve been disrespected. Nobody has believed in me. But I never stopped believing. I just kept fighting …

I’m sorry. I think I’ve been to too many press conferences lately.

UConn (+5 ½) over Michigan State: Shabazz Napier plus points in a home game? Yes, please. The Spartans certainly have the edge in this game, and should hammer the Huskies on the glass, but UConn’s balanced attack — led by the most confident guard in the country — only will benefit from another raucous Garden crowd.

Kentucky (-2) over Michigan: The Wolverines will win if they play like they did in the first 30 minutes against Tennessee. The Wolverines will get destroyed if they play like they did in the final 10 minutes. Sunday’s result will be a mix. Even though Michigan’s offense can be a wondrous sight, Nik Stauskas and Co. can only stay hot from outside for so long. Kentucky’s advantage inside will be there from start to finish.

2014 record: 30-18-2 (before Saturday night)

2011-13 record: 72-47-2

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