Steve Nitz: So Andy, it’s time for March Madness. One of the best times of the year, isn’t it?
Andy Pruski: No doubt. Brings back memories of skipping class in high school to go in the A/V room and watch the early rounds.

SN: So, what’s your all-time favorite March Madness moment?
AP: Being in Memphis when the Tigers beat Bradley to make the elite eight in 2006. What about you?
SN: I’ll go with George Mason’s incredible run to the Final Four the same year. Plus every tournament game that Gus Johnson announces.

AP: So who do you think is going to make a George Mason–like run this bracket season?
SN: I don’t know if anybody will make a run like that for a while. If I had to pick somebody I would go with tenth–seeded Arizona. They are finally healthy and they have the talent. Who’s your pick?
AP: I think North Carolina could upset some teams this season. Seriously though, I think St. Mary’s could do some damage as a 10–seed.
Speaking of upsets, which first or second ranked team do you see losing early?

SN: Well I mentioned Arizona earlier, and they could possibly run into No. 2 seed Duke in the second round. So I guess I’ll have to say the Blue Devils.
AP: As much as I’d like to say Duke or North Carolina, I think Memphis could have problems. Something about them shooting under 60 percent from the free throw line scares me.

SN: If I was a Memphis fan the free throw shooting would really worry me. So are there any particular first round match–ups you are looking forward to?
AP: UNLV and Kent State could be interesting. Wouldn’t it be nice to find a time machine, go back 12 years and watch NIU in the tournament?
SN: I’ll be looking forward to the games in Denver because that’s where Gus Johnson will be at. And for those who don’t know who he is, he was the announcer who went crazy during the UCLA comeback against Gonzaga two years ago.
As for NIU, when do you think Coach Patton will lead the Huskies back?

AP: When the next Chauncey Billups walks into the Convo. Jake Anderson is good though, and if he tightens his D and gets some help NIU could compete for the MAC. You holding your breath?
SN: NIU will make the tourney within five years. Book it. So who is going to be cutting down the nets in San Antonio?
AP: Bo Ryan will lead the Badgers past Duke and North Carolina in a fight only fitting for the Alamo. Don’t tell me you’re picking UNC?
SN: I don’t think the Tar Heels play enough defense to get the job done. I know they have disappointed the last few years, but I think this is the year Bill Self’s Kansas Jayhawks finally get the job done.

AP: Fair enough. So is it safe to assume you won’t be writing anything for the next few weeks or will you leave your couch a few times?
SN: I might leave my couch to go to the fridge, but that’s about it.

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