With conference tournaments in full swing, Hoops and Howie predict why first- and second-round games could be unique in this year’s NCAA Tournament, which schools may follow a trend and make their first Final Four appearance, and two things that will matter most this year as a result of the pandemic. They also make several bold tourney picks and reveal the teams and conferences that may be in for surprises come Selection Sunday.







Plus, Howie talks to Auburn coach Bruce Pearl, whose team this season faced four of the top-8 teams in the latest AP poll: Gonzaga, Baylor, Alabama and Arkansas.







Thanks to Bruce Pearl for joining us, and big thanks as always to Dick Vitale, Chris McLernon, Ricky Sanders and Sonic Librarian.