SOUTH
Vanderbilt (11) vs. Wichita State (11): Featuring the underrated Shockers and overrated Commodores after failing to live up to preseason expectations, this might be the best First Four game ever.
California (4) vs. Hawaii (13): The Bears are dangerous, but they get an intriguing matchup from the start with the Rainbow Warriors' Stefan Jankovic (above) a game-changing presence under the hoop.
WEST
Baylor (5) vs. Yale (13): The Bears will brutalize their opponents on both ends in the paint. Expect Yale's stellar defense to try to slow the pace to get the advantage.
Texas (6) vs. Northern Iowa (11): Under new coach Shaka Smart (above), the quick-learning Longhorns are better than we thought they'd be. But who's as hot as Northern Iowa with 12 wins in its past 13 games?
MIDWEST
Iowa State (4) vs. Iona (13): If you like watching tons of action and tons of scoring — and who doesn't? — this matchup of top-35 scoring offenses is for you.
Texas Tech (8) vs. Butler (9): The path to advancement doesn't look all that scary for Tubby Smith (above), whose Red Raiders have overachieved this season. Meanwhile, Butler relies too heavily on streaky shooting.
EAST
Kentucky (4) vs. Stony Brook (13): Hey Jameel Warney (above), here's your stage, here's your moment. The Wildcats are just a shadow of vintage Kentucky, and there could be an upset brewing.
West Virginia (3) vs. Stephen F. Austin (14): This might be Stephen F. Austin coach Brad Underwood's best bunch. Who does the whole full-court press thing better? The Mountaineers will have tough competition.
AMELIA RAYNO
