With a first-round win against Wofford, Pitt moves on to play Princeton at the Pete Monday night. The Panthers had an easy time in that first game, winning by 18, but things will probably be a bit more difficult against the Tigers.
In winning its first game, Princeton moved to 20-11 on the year. The team will provide a tough test for a Pitt team that played well in its first tournament game, but has largely struggled this season.
The Tigers play in the Ivy League, but also took on some good competition along the way. Princeton didn’t just play those teams, but beat many of them. The Tigers defeated Rutgers and ACC tournament champion, Florida State on the road this season. They also lost by only six combined points to Sweet 16 North Carolina State and Drexel, who just missed the NCAAs and won 27 games in the regular season.
The Panthers’ biggest challenge will probably be trying to contain forward Ian Hummer. Hummer is the Tigers’ best player averaging more than 16 points and seven rebounds per game. At 6-foot-7, the Panthers have the size to defend him, but Pitt’s frontcourt has had trouble against skilled forwards and centers this season. The key to the game may be how well Nasir Robinson, Dante Taylor, and Talib Zanna cover him.
On offense, the key will be trying to get a good balance of contributions like Pitt did against Wofford. The Panthers had five players in double figures in scoring in that game and if that happens again, look for a Pitt win on Monday.
For more on the game and Pitt basketball, check out SB Nation blog, Cardiac Hill.