DENVER --- Really, how much better a setup is there? Basketball in the a.m., Jerry Palm and Gus Johnson both in the building, tournament committee chairman Tom O'Connor within a couple yards, a distinct upset possibility about to tip off, and a chance to see the fantastic Temple duo of Dionte Christmas and Mark Tyndale.

I've been up since 5 a.m. local time, both anticipation and a lingering bout with a nasty cold conspiring to keep me awake, and finally it's ready to go.

I'm not a big bracket guy --- haven't seriously filled one out since 2002. But since people seem to want picks from anyone and everyone, here's a Final Four: North Carolina, Kansas, UCLA and Texas. Very chalky, I know.

National champion: Against my better judgment, Kansas. The Aughts have been all about the guys who people said couldn't win the big one. Gary Williams, Jim Boeheim, Roy Williams, Billy Donovan. All were pilloried in some fashion or another for premature tournament flameouts. Now all have a national title. Here's thinking Bill Self and his balanced, athletic team add another coach's name to that list.

--- Patrick Stevens