Iowa State entered the Big Dance as a legit contender to cut down the nets. An injury to the Cyclones' star, Joshua Jefferson, puts a damper on their chances. Jefferson limped out of the opener with an ankle injury and appears unlike to be ready. Kentucky, with its high NIL payroll, survived steep expectations with an overtime escape past Santa Clara, which removes pressure of a possibly early tourney exit. The Wildcats should be more relaxd here. Their stellar three-point defense can cause problems for Iowa State's sharpshooters.