A strange sensation.

All of college basketball compelled to consider the University of Louisville as the No. 1 seed as they complete their brackets. Many picking U of L without ever once having seen them play.

Those of us who saw every game have to wonder sometime if the analysts and the everyday fans are talking about the same team. Suddenly, the Louisville team is comprised of excellent shooters, long, lean and strong players and an inexhaustible bench, all but guaranteed to reach the Final Four.

These Johnny-come-latelys don’t have a clue.

This team has plenty of weaknesses, and will need a lot of luck. Contrast that with Rick Pitino’s intense desire to win and his ability to convey that to the players. There is considerable talent but not overpowering. It is their love for the game, an unparalleled defensive intensity, and an uncanny opportunistic approach to offense that sets them apart.

All these elements must hang together for Louisville to get to Detroit.

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By Charlie Springer

Charlie Springer is a former Louisville editor and sportswriter, a public affairs consultant, a UofL grad and longtime fan.