Ohio State lost the Big Ten Tournament final to Michigan State, but may have won an easier NCAA path than last season, as a No. 2 seed in the East.

View full sizeMichael Conroy, Associated PressMichigan State's Adreian Payne enjoys the final moments of Sunday's victory by the Spartans in the Big Ten championship game in Indianapolis.

INDIANAPOLIS -- Ohio State didn't cut down the nets Sunday, but the Buckeyes might have a reason to pump their fists.

Ohio State lost the Big Ten Tournament title game, shuffled off the floor instead of dancing off it, earned a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament instead of a No. 1 seed ... looks to have an easier path to the Final Four than a year ago.

After losing to Michigan State, 68-64, in what may have been the best Big Ten championship in 15 years, the Buckeyes were given a No. 2 seed in the East Regional behind No. 1 seed Syracuse and will open the tournament on Thursday against No. 15 seed Loyola (Md). A win would send the Buckeyes against the winner of No. 7 Gonzaga and No. 10 West Virginia, where the Mountaineers could have a homecourt edge 75 miles from their campus on St. Patrick's Day.

Florida State is the No. 3 seed in the region and Wisconsin is the No. 4 seed.

Compare that to the bracket that No. 1 seed Ohio State had in 2011 -- with No. 2 seed North Carolina, No. 3 Syracuse and No. 4 Kentucky. Those three are all top seeds this season, a final reminder of the path those Buckeyes faced.

"That is an incredible thing when you stop and think about it," OSU coach Thad Matta said after the bracket was unveiled Sunday night.

For much of Sunday afternoon, the play on the court was rather incredible, with the pace and intensity of players and fans creating what felt like a NCAA regional final. If both teams continue to play as they did over the weekend, both Michigan State (27-7), which earned the West's No. 1 seed, and Ohio State (27-7) should be viewed as Final Four contenders.

"I thought it was one of the tougher, better games that I've seen," Michigan State coach Tom Izzo said.

"It felt real good. It was an NCAA experience," said OSU senior William Buford, who became the first Big Ten player to play in four straight conference championship games. "But that was our problem. We kept trading baskets and we can't do that. Starting Thursday, we can't trade baskets. We've got to score and stop somebody on the defensive end."

To that end, guard Lenzelle Smith Jr. said the game had an AAU feel at times with all the running. In the furious first eight minutes of the second half, Ohio State went from five points down to seven points up on a Deshaun Thomas 3-pointer before the Spartans rallied back with 8-0 run that gave them a lead they never relinquished.

"We didn't guard in transition at all," Smith said. "We got buckets and we kind of jogged back instead of finding our man and communicating with each other."

So the Buckeyes have something to work on, reminded of their deficiencies by the loss.

"Better now than in the tournament, absolutely," Buford said.

Jared Sullinger led the Buckeyes with 18 points and was named to the All-Tournament team along with Deshaun Thomas. Brandon Wood led Michigan State with 21 and also made the All-Tournament team, while Spartans' senior Draymond Green had 12 and followed his regular-season conference player of the year honor with the tournament MVP award.

But following quarterfinal and semifinal wins over Purdue and Michigan, and a win at Michigan State to end the regular-season a week earlier, the Buckeyes still flashed enough of the team they want to be. They should have been reminded of what they can be.

"This team showed me a lot over the last couple weeks," Matta said. "Today's game, we didn't get the job done in terms of the plays we needed to make. But I thought we played in stretches some really good basketball."

Now all that is behind them. Ohio State is in the middle of finals, so some players have tests as early as 7:30 a.m. Monday. Matta is hoping the Buckeyes would be able to get all their finals done before leaving for Pittsburgh on Tuesday night, where they'll practice and do interviews Wednesday before opening play Thursday.

The Buckeyes won the Big Ten Tournament in 2010 and 2011, but Matta brought up that the last time they lost in the championship game in 2009, they then lost in the opening round of the NCAAs as a No. 8 seed to Siena. Now the turnaround is even faster -- the Buckeyes will play on Thursday for the first time since 2007. That year, Ohio State won the Big Ten title in Chicago and then reached the national title game.

"It's a little bit of a mental letdown when you play the last game of the regular season, but you've got to pick yourselves back up," Matta said.

They'll do that against the Loyola (Md.) Greyhounds (24-8), who are in the tournament for the first time since 1994 after winning the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference tournament. Loyola was 1-27 eight years ago, which led to the hiring of coach Jimmy Patsos. He's a former assistant at Maryland, where he coached with current OSU assistant Dave Dickerson. Matta thought that would give Ohio State some familiarity with Loyola's style.

There's no reason to expect the Buckeyes to have problems with the Greyhounds. After that, there are fewer reasons than a year ago to expect problems in their bracket.

Tony Sipp had an especially bad day as the Indians are sloppy in defeat.

Chuck Crow, The Plain DealerEverything that could go wrong did go wrong for Indians relief pitcher Tony Sipp

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- The Cleveland Indians didn't hit nearly enough, didn't pitch particularly well and committed four errors in a 6-1 loss to the Texas Rangers Sunday at Surprise Stadium.

Worse, outfielder Felix Pie crashed into the center field wall in the eighth. He left the game but was able to walk off the field on his own.

Kevin Slowey, a candidate for the No. 5 spot in the rotation, pitched in and out of trouble in his scheduled three-inning start. The right-hander allowed five hits and two earned runs while striking out one.

The Rangers did a lot more damage in the fourth off lefty reliever Tony Sipp, who had a horrible outing. Sipp gave up three doubles, two singles and a walk. That wasn't the worst of it. He made two errors in the three-run inning, throwing wildly on two pickoff attempts.

Right-hander Corey Kluber, acquired in the Jake Westbrook trade, allowed a run in two innings. He hit a batter and also made an error. Frank Herrmann pitched the final two innings without allowing a run.

The Indians' only run came in the third when left-field candidate Aaron Cunningham doubled to left, went to third on Andy LaRoche's single and scored on Michael Brantley's sacrifice fly.

The only other highlight was a two-for-three day by right-fielder Shin-Soo Choo.

The Indians play Arizona Monday at Goodyear Ballpark. Ubaldo Jimenez will start against Diamondbacks' lefty Joe Saunders.

Justin Masterson goes with the flow and it showed on the mound in 2011.

View full sizeChuck Crow, The Plain Dealer"A few fans are asking for [a no-hitter]," Indians Opening Day starter Justin Masterson says, "but let's get a W."

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- The most famous Jamaican-born pitcher in Major League Baseball is not at all what you'd expect, other than his no-worries attitude. Conversations with Justin Masterson amble along with as much unexpected movement as hitters see from him in an average at-bat.

"I [even] walk slow, just ask my wife," Masterson said about his laid-back nature. "Which ... I did read an article that said you're more likely to get dementia if you walk slow. I need to start walking fast."

The son of a pastor, Masterson has a daughter named Eden Joy. When you mention the obvious Bible connection, he nods and says, "Yes. The perfect garden ... we got [Eden] from a street sign."

Unlike his thoughts, which sometimes travel on a roundabout -- he described the reason for off-season surgery as leaking "shoulder juices" -- it's not hard to see Masterson coming down the road. People take note of where he was born, he says, and think they're going to see "a big black Jamaican guy." Instead, they see a 6-6, 245-pound white guy with a shaved head, a guy who -- out of uniform at this time of year -- is likely to be seen in shorts with white socks pulled nerdishly high.

Masterson was born in Kingston, moved to Indiana when he was a couple years old and settled in Beavercreek, Ohio. His only tangible connection to Jamaica is his birth certificate and his copy of the movie "Cool Runnings," the story of the 1988 Jamaican bobsled team.

He does have an islander's nonchalance to everything from Boston's decision to use him primarily out of the bullpen, to his emergence as a starter last year to Manny Acta's decision to name him the Opening Day starter in 2012.

"[My personality] helps me out on the mound," Masterson said. "You don't get too aggressive. It's easy, easy, easy and then, 'Whop!' That's kind of the idea of what you want. Literally, the 'Whop!' is what you want to hear. It's like the whip cracks."

View full sizeChuck Crow, The Plain DealerAn admiring Manny Acta says Masterson is "the guy that whenever you rolled into another town, the other team was wondering if they were going to see him or not."

Boston liked to hear the whip crack loudest out of the bullpen. Masterson didn't mind. He had a similar reaction when he showed up at the Cape Cod League and they asked him to be a closer. All along, Masterson believed he could be a big-league starter. A strong finish in 2010 spilled into 2011 where he went 12-10 with a 3.21 ERA despite getting poor run support.

"Coming into the season last year we all knew he had the stuff," Manny Acta said. "He went through a rough time the year before [2010] making the transition to being a starter, but he learned a lot."

Some of us -- OK, me -- still sold Masterson short last year. Not in predicting he'd have trouble repeating his delivery at his size for nine innings though that was part of it. Masterson just came across to me as too easy-going, a big kid who didn't quite look the part of front-of-the-rotation starter. What a misread.

Turns out he had exactly the right mix of serious approach and unflappable attitude, someone who looked so relaxed and loose on the mound because he'd already done his preparation. Not only did Masterson deal well with the typical pressures of pitching in the big leagues but also in dealing with the added pressures of pitching so many innings with so little margin for error.

He threw 216 innings last season. He only pitched 19 innings with three-run lead or bigger. In those games, he was 5-0. That many nights on the tightrope can cause some high anxiety. Surely, Masterson felt it. He just rarely if ever showed it.

He could've won 15 to 17 games with more run support. Acta thought so, too, obviously. Masterson's 2011 season made him the right choice to open the season, Acta saying he deserved it "by being the guy that whenever you rolled into another town, the other team was wondering if they were going to see him or not."

Masterson says he's "humbled" by the Opening Day start. In the history of Opening Day starts for Indians' pitchers, there's a lot of middle ground between Bob Feller's no-hitter and the 10 runs in three innings debacle authored by Roberto Hernandez (Fausto Carmona) last year.

"A few fans are asking for [a no-hitter]," Masterson said, "but let's get a W. Let's improve off what Rob did and go from there."

Rob? That's Masterson being Masterson.

Is he a No. 1 starter? You want to say, no, not on a division favorite, if only because the Detroit Tigers can trot out Justin Verlander.

But the better answer is not to label him. The better answer is maybe not ... yet.

On Twitter: @budshaw

Sessions averages 10.4 points and 5.1 assists and is the team's most productive reserve.

View full sizeThomas Ondrey, The Plain Dealer"I like what we have going on," says Cavaliers backup Ramon Sessions as the NBA trade deadline nears. "The guys in here respect me a lot. I definitely like what we have going on."

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Cavaliers reserve guard Ramon Sessions, the subject of persistent trade rumors since the club drafted Kyrie Irving last June, said Sunday he hopes to be part of the team after Thursday's trade deadline.

Coach Byron Scott shares the sentiment. He's even allowed himself to think what the last six weeks of the season would be like if the Cavaliers dealt Sessions.

"I'm not going to sit here and say I don't think about that," Scott said. "If Sess is not here, what are you going to do? I go, 'Damn, I have no idea.' That's how well he's playing."

Sessions and Antawn Jamison are the two Cavaliers most rumored to be dealt. It's believed Sessions might bring the most in return, although some do not think the Cavaliers will be able to extract a first-rounder for him. He averages 10.4 points and 5.1 assists and is the team's most productive reserve with Alonzo Gee elevated to the starting lineup.

Sessions said he's been unfazed by all the speculation. He's already been traded once and is playing for his third franchise in five seasons.

"I have been hearing rumors since my first season in Milwaukee," Sessions said. "It's one of those things you get used to."

Sessions holds a $4.55 million player's option for next season, but said he will not make a decision on whether to exercise it until the off-season. If the Cavs do not move him at the deadline and Sessions opts out, they could lose him for nothing.

The Los Angeles Lakers and Atlanta Hawks are two teams rumored to have interest in Sessions. The Minnesota Timberwolves, fighting for a Western Conference playoff spot, might also be calling the Cavaliers after the season-ending knee injury to point guard Ricky Rubio.

Sessions was asked if he wants to remain a Cavalier after the deadline.

"Yeah, I like what we have going on," he said. "I like working with the Young Fella [Irving]. The guys in here respect me a lot. I definitely like what we have going on."

Irving on Rubio: Irving said he hated to see the injury that sidelined Rubio, who was his most serious threat in the NBA Rookie of the Year race.

"He was really bringing life back to Minnesota," Irving said. "It's tragic. On a fun note, that's kind of like my nemesis. It was me vs. him at times. I'm used to seeing his stats every single night, seeing how many points and assists he had. ... He's such a great player, even when he played in Spain."

Harris won't be kept: The Cavaliers informed shooting guard Manny Harris that they were not resigning him after his second 10-day contract expired on Sunday. The club wants roster flexibility heading into the trade deadline. They have 14 players on their roster.

Harris appeared in just three games during his 20-day stay with the club. He is now a free agent. Harris is not immediately returning to the Canton Charge, he said, as he wants to see what transpires at the deadline. The Cavs could resign him, but the contract would have to be guaranteed for the remainder of the season.

Dribbles: The crowd at Sunday's game included hundreds of Chardon fans wearing red T-shirts and sweatshirts. The Cavaliers donated approximately 4,000 tickets to Chardon students, staff and their families.

The school is trying to cope with Feb. 27 school shooting that left three students dead.

Cavaliers match longest winning streak since Nov. 5-9, 2010.

View full sizeTony Dejak, Associated PressDaniel Gibson splits the defense of Houston's Jordan Hill (left) and Courtney Lee during the first quarter of Sunday night's Cavaliers victory at The Q. Gibson scored 11 points for the Cavs, who had six players reach double figures.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A week ago, the Cavaliers' playoff hopes appeared sunk, dragged down by a season-worst, six-game losing streak.

But they are firmly back in postseason contention after a 118-107 win over the Houston Rockets on Sunday at The Q. It was the club's third straight victory -- its longest of the season -- and it pulled them within one game of the reeling New York Knicks in the loss column.

It's the Cavaliers' first three-game win streak since Nov. 5-9, 2010. The win also snapped a four-game losing streak at The Q.

Antawn Jamison scored 28 points to lead the Cavaliers (16-23), who host Toronto on Tuesday. Kyrie Irving added 21 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter.

The Cavaliers got huge contributions from reserves Ramon Sessions (15 points, seven assists), Samardo Samuels (11 points), Daniel Gibson (11 points) and Omri Casspi, who delivered a pair of 3-pointers early in the fourth quarter.

Luis Scola had 30 points for Houston, which has lost six of its last seven games.

Manny Acta thinks players need every day of camp to get ready. His ballclub, which lost to Texas and the Angels on Sunday by a combined score of 23-3, seems to agree.

Chuck Crow, The Plain DealerFirst baseman Casey Kotchman was scratched from Sunday's lineup against the Angels because of a sore lower back.

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- A lot of players think spring training could be shorter. Manager Manny Acta refuted that and used left-hander Tony Sipp as an example.

Sipp relieved Kevin Slowey on Sunday to start the fourth inning against Texas. The Indians trailed, 2-1, but that changed quickly. Sipp allowed the first six Rangers he faced to reach base. Mitch Moreland, Luis Martinez and Josh Hamilton doubled. Julio Borbon and Yangervis Solarte singled. Elvis Andrus walked.

Along the way, Sipp made two errors on consecutive plays. He botched a rundown and a pickoff.

"It's an example for those who think spring training is too long," said Acta, following a 6-1 Cactus League loss to Texas. "Maybe for some people it is, but I defer. Spring training is long for a reason. We've already had 1,000 PFPs (pitchers' fielding practices) and 1,000 rundowns. Then we get out there and we didn't do a very good job.

"I never think that spring training is too long. We need to continue to work on things."

About a half-hour after losing to Texas, the Indians finished off a split-squad loss to the Angels, 17-2. In the two games, the Indians made seven errors.

Collision course: Center fielder Felix Pie said he was OK after colliding with the wall in the eighth inning while chasing a triple by Luis Hernandez. Pie was taken off the field and examined by trainers.

"He was dizzy and the trainers decided to take him out of the game," said Acta. "They checked him and nothing seems wrong, at least with the tests they gave him."

Pie is competing for the open left field job.

Positive step: Slowey allowed two runs on five hits in three innings against Texas. He put the ball on the ground five times for what resulted in four outs. It would have been five except for shortstop Cristian Guzman's error to start the game.

Slowey is a fly ball pitcher, so he considered the ground balls a good sign.

"Today I was closer to where I want to be mechanically," he said. "I got more ground balls than fly balls. Some found holes through the infield. Still, mechanically it's getting there."

Slowey is competing for the fifth spot in the rotation.

Cut time: The Indians made their first roster cut of spring training Sunday as right-handers Tyler Sturdevant and Austin Adams along with catcher Chun Chen were re-assigned to the minors.

Sturdevant and Adams came down with sore right shoulders and Chen sprained his right ankle last week running to practice. There are 59 players left in camp and another cut is expected later this week.

Adams had an MRI on his right shoulder. Acta said the results were positive.

My aching back: Casey Kotchman was scratched from the game against the Angels because of tightness in the lower back. Matt LaPorta replaced him.

Dr. Zero: Guzman is wearing No. 0 in camp.

"I asked for No. 15," he said. "That's the number I usually wear, but Sandy Alomar wears No. 15. So I just asked for zero. Now everybody calls me zero."

Injuries: CF Grady Sizemore (back), RHP Chris Perez (left oblique), LHP Rafael Perez (left shoulder), RHP Robinson Tejeda (right calf) and 1B Kotchman (back) are all injured. Rafael Perez could be throwing in games later this week.

"Raffie came out of his last bullpen, where he threw with more intensity, and he felt good," said Acta. "We're going to schedule him to face some hitters this week and he could be back in games sometime this week."

Next: Arizona will play the Indians on Monday at Goodyear Ballpark. Ubaldo Jimenez will start for the Tribe. Jeremy Accardo, Nick Hagadone, Vinnie Pestano, Joe Smith and Dan Wheeler are scheduled to follow.

On Twitter: @hoynsie

While Byron Scott appreciates Irving's desire to involve his teammates, he doesn't want the point guard to forget about getting his points, too.

View full sizeThomas Ondrey, The Plain DealerFar from being a shoot-first point guard, rookie Kyrie Irving has focused in recent games in getting his teammates the ball -- and Byron Scott would prefer that Irving continue to be aggressive toward the basket.

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- Oh, the exuberance of youth.

Byron Scott was focused on upsetting Oklahoma City on Friday as he overheard rookie Kyrie Irving excitedly talking about his mounting assist total.

"He came to the bench and in his own little way said, 'I'm dropping dimes tonight.'" The Cavaliers coach said as Irving set a career high with 12 assists in the victory. "And, I just looked at him and started laughing and I said, 'OK, just keep dropping dimes.'"

While the coach appreciates Irving's desire to involve his teammates early in games, he doesn't want the point guard to forget about getting his points, too. Irving has been slow to affect recent games in the scoring column. He had just four points at halftime against Denver and four and five points respectively after three quarters versus the Thunder and Houston.

His fourth-quarter heroics are part of his growing reputation -- Irving had 16 points in the final quarter against Houston on Sunday -- but Scott wouldn't mind more production in the first 36 minutes. Irving was just 2-of-11 from the field in the first three quarters against the Rockets.

"I don't want to say he is taking the first half off because he's doing a great job of getting his teammates the ball, but I do want him to be a little more aggressive in looking for his shot," Scott said. "That's the one thing he hasn't done in the last couple of games, but maybe I shouldn't complain because we have won those games."

Irving is averaging 18.4 points.

Calderon ailing: The Toronto Raptors likely will be without point guard Jose Calderon on Tuesday night against the Cavaliers. He suffered a right ankle sprain Saturday in a loss to Detroit.

It's not exactly the Miami Heat minus LeBron James or the Chicago Bulls sans Derrick Rose, but Calderon has made life miserable for the Cavaliers and Irving in two meetings this season. The Spaniard had 15 points and 11 assists in the season opener, a 104-96 win for the Raptors. Two weeks later, Calderon contributed 13 points and 11 assists in Toronto's 92-77 victory.

He leads the NBA in assist-to-turnover ratio (4.46).

"He doesn't turn the ball over, he runs the team [well]," Scott said. "I think a lot of teams try to speed him up but he goes at his own pace. He shoots it at a high rate so you can't go under screens. He's just a very highly intelligent point guard who knows how to play the game and I think that's why he's given us so many problems."

Jerryd Bayless is expected to start at point guard.

Dribbles: Scott said he doesn't expect Anderson Varejao (fractured wrist) to be re-examined by team doctors until next week. The center already has missed four-plus weeks. ... Scott said the two big 3-point shots that Omri Casspi hit in the fourth quarter Sunday could not only give him confidence, but his teammates confidence in him. Casspi has been mired in a season-long slump.

The undefeated and top-seeded Lady Bears are looking to become the seventh school to run through a season unbeaten.

View full sizeJeff Tuttle, Associated PressBaylor's dominating Brittney Griner could face Ohio State in the second round of the NCAA women's basketball tournament after the 64-team field was announced Monday night.

NEW YORK -- Brittney Griner and the Baylor Bears have one goal this season -- a national championship.

Anything less would be a disappointment for the undefeated top-seeded Lady Bears, who are looking to become the seventh school to run through a season unbeaten.

Standing in the way could be the other No. 1 seeds -- Stanford, Connecticut and Notre Dame, dominant all season long. The Huskies and Irish both lost competitive games at Baylor this season.

Griner and Baylor, who lost in the regional final last season, could be the first team ever to win 40 games in a year, but coach Kim Mulkey only cares about one thing -- a second national title for the school.

"We started hearing about that, and it's never been a goal of ours," Mulkey said of winning 40 games. "Our simple goal is to win a national championship."

• Printable bracket for the NCAA women's tournament

The basketball madness gets started Saturday -- the first step en route to the Final Four, which begins April 1 in Denver. To get to their second Final Four in three seasons, the Lady Bears might have to get through Ohio State in the second round and second-seeded Tennessee, which is appearing in its 31st straight NCAA tournament.

The two teams met in November, and Tennessee held an eight-point lead early in the second half before Griner took over en route to a nine-point victory.

The 6-foot-8 phenom has been dominant lately scoring more than 40 points twice in the past 10 games, including a 45-point effort in the Big 12 tournament semifinals this past weekend.

Ohio State is the eighth seed in the Des Moines Regional and will play Florida on Sunday at 12:15 p.m. at Bowling Green University. A win there would presumably set up a second-round game against the Bears.

The Lady Vols have won eight national championships but haven't been to the Final Four in three seasons. They pledged at the beginning of the season that they would not go a fourth consecutive year without reaching the Final Four -- something they've never done -- and would try to win a national title to honor Pat Summitt. The coach announced in August she'd been diagnosed with early onset dementia, Alzheimer's type.

Summitt's squad will face her alma mater -- Tennessee Martin -- in the opener.

"I like my alma mater," Summitt said. "I like winning and moving on better."

Before a potential matchup with Baylor, Tennessee could meet Delaware and the nation's leading scorer Elena Delle Donne. The 6-5 star is averaging 27.5 points this season and has guided the Blue Hens to a 30-1 mark.

Now they are looking for their first NCAA tournament victory.

Connecticut hopes to win its eighth national championship (tying Tennessee) and will start with a matchup against Prairie View.

UConn coach Geno Auriemma told the Huskies' faithful in the preseason that this team wouldn't win a national championship. But his young team has developed over the past five months, and Connecticut looks poised to make another run after beating Notre Dame for the Big East tournament title.

"If you have to rely just on momentum then you don't have a good enough team," Auriemma said. "We've got to hope we have a good enough team and then rely on momentum as an extra asset."

The Irish also have been focused on winning a title after falling just short last season, losing in the championship game to Texas A&M, which is a No. 3 seed in the Raleigh region. The two teams could meet in the regional final.

Notre Dame, which will open up at home against Liberty, reached the national title game last year by knocking off UConn in the Final Four. It was the fourth straight season that UConn made the Final Four. The two teams, who already have played three times this year, could meet for a fourth time in Denver.

The Cardinal also have advanced four straight seasons to the Final Four, and coach Tara VanDerveer is looking to get her first title in 20 years. She'll begin with a trip East to Norfolk, Va. to face Hampton. Stanford, which has won 28 straight games since its lone loss of the season to Connecticut, hasn't been east of the Rockies since 2001, when they went to Oklahoma.

"Well last year at this time I don't think anyone thought Texas A&M was going to win either," VanDerveer said. "Baylor has had a great year. I think that Brittney Griner is a great player, she's a tremendous talent. We know that every team is beatable. I hope we have a chance to play them. We want to go as far as we can. If that means playing Baylor, we'll be ready."

Standing in the way of a fifth trip to the Final Four could be second-seed Duke, which lost in the ACC tournament quarterfinals. The Blue Devils are led by talented freshman post Elizabeth Williams and sophomore guard Chelsea Grey and will face Samford in the opening round.

Another intriguing team in that region is third-seeded St. John's, which ended UConn's 99-game homecourt winning streak in February. The Red Storm have won 14 of their last 17 games after falling to the Huskies in the semifinals of the Big East tournament. Third seed St. John's faces Creighton in its opener.

Missing from the tournament is North Carolina, which is hosting the first two rounds, but didn't make the field for the first time since 2001.

While the Tar Heels will be missing, three schools -- Albany, St. Bonaventure and Florida Gulf Coast -- are making their first appearance.

The Bonnies and Eagles will be meeting in the first round.

Ubaldo Jimenez says he's found heaven pitching for the Indians. The fan base has yet to find reason to rejoice.

View full sizeChuck Crow, The Plain DealerUbaldo Jimenez is confident he'll be a much-improved pitcher for the Indians in 2012. "Every time I take the mound I'm trying to give 100 percent," he said. "Like I've said before, I wasn't healthy [last year]."

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Ubaldo Jimenez and the quick, tidy, 1-2-3 inning are not on speaking terms.

Spotless work is far more often associated with Josh Tomlin or Justin Masterson, who only coincidentally looks like Mr. Clean. Jimenez's innings last year were more along the lines of "Gone With The Wind" in length, number of plot twists and wayward fastballs.

That hasn't changed so far this spring but, of course, we are reminded it's only March and guys who were their team's Opening Day pitcher, guys who've thrown no-hitters, who've started All-Star games, are never in spring training for the results.

OK, but forgive those asking if Jimenez is still that guy? The Indians bet Drew Pomeranz and Alex White that he is, but that doesn't make it so.

He was certainly all that for Colorado, but the Rockies were still willing to trade him at age 27. That hangs over every discussion of him after his 2011 season, especially after what the Indians gave up to acquire him.

"We've traded better pitchers," Manny Acta said shrugging, meaning the trades of Cliff Lee and C.C. Sabathia weren't a reflection on them as pitchers. True, though inadvertently hinting that Jimenez is no Lee or Sabathia is probably not the best argument to make after an organization traded its top two prospects to get him. He'd better be darn close.

The difference is Sabathia's deal was coming to an end and Lee's had about 18 months remaining. Colorado had Jimenez for 31/2 team-friendly years. The Indians have him for at least the next two seasons, during which he'll want an Ubaldo-friendly contract no matter how much he praises the organization for how it treats its players.

Even if there were economics at work in the Rockies' decision -- they'd signed Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez for a combined $237 million and weren't anxious to take on another mega deal -- fact is they didn't need to take on another big contract anytime soon.

Jimenez said earlier in camp that his issues in Colorado went back to when he was in the minors. "It was kind of hard being with the Rockies," he said. "I went through a lot of things that people outside the organization don't know. But me and the people in the front office know."

He claims he has landed in a happy place with the Indians, though there was not much rejoicing among the fan base over his 4-4 record and 5.10 ERA after joining the Indians last year.

So why so joyful?

"It says in the Bible heaven is the most peaceful place," Jimenez said Monday after a spotty three innings against Arizona. He means he has found what he calls a "mental peace" free of worries.

The Indians can only hope so. There was much to like about the deal when the Indians made it, because it spoke to an urgency to win in a town that is always being told to be patient. Watching him last year -- even knowing he was supposedly not himself because of early-season injuries -- made me wonder if they made the right kind of trade -- just for the wrong guy.

Acta knows some believe the Indians gave up too much and he isn't sleepless over that opinion. To his credit, he didn't try to take any pressure off Jimenez when he named Justin Masterson the Opening Day starter, saying, "[Jimenez] is a No. 1 pitching out of the No. 2 spot."

Meaning, there's no way this guy can hide, no matter where he pitches in the rotation. Acta knows it. To his credit, Jimenez seems to, also. It's why there's so much analysis of his 2012 spring training outings.

"That's something that is natural," Jimenez said Monday. "I mean the Indians gave a lot for me. As a player I understand that.

"Every time I take the mound I'm trying to give 100 percent. Like I've said before, I wasn't healthy [last year]. This year if everything goes wrong, I'm going to be like, 'OK, that was me. Sorry.'"

Jimenez laughed. He knows "Sorry" won't quite cover it.

For the deal to be considered a good one, his success rate on the Justin Meter will have to swing more toward Verlander than Masterson. He'll have to be a No. 1 pitching out of the No. 1 spot.

And, oh yeah, in October, too.

On Twitter: @budshaw

Shelley Duncan played in front of a special audience Monday: his father, former Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan, stopped by with retired manager Tony LaRussa.

Chuck Crow, The Plain DealerAaron Cunningham's versatility gives him a chance to break camp with the Indians

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Shelley Duncan had a normal spring training day. Morning workout. Afternoon game.

The unusual part probably seems like the most typical. His father watched him play, single in a run and walk with the bases loaded in a 3-2 win over Arizona.

Dave Duncan and Tony La Russa, former pitching coach and manager combo for the St. Louis Cardinals, stopped by Goodyear Monday. Duncan is on a leave of absence from the Cardinals. He stepped down in January to help his wife, Jeanine, who is being treated for cancer.

"We came out to Arizona for a couple of reasons," Dave Duncan said. "Mostly to see Shelley, but his wife is pregnant with twins, so my wife really wanted to get together with his wife and do a little baby shopping."

Shelley Duncan said his father, who played for the Indians in 1973-74, hadn't seen him play "since college." Baseball season has always meant being in different camps and on different teams for the Duncans. Dave has been the Cardinals' pitching coach since 1995.

Now at least Shelley Duncan is playing for the team in the city where his mother and father were married.

"I think it's really neat," Dave Duncan said. "He loves Cleveland and I loved it when I was there. He's excited that he's getting a little more of an opportunity to play. It's a situation he likes a lot so it makes me happy."

Opportunities knocking: Aaron Cunningham and Russ Canzler weren't on the radar of Indians' fans last season, but both could figure into the picture for 2012.

Cunningham, who can play all three outfield positions, was acquired in a trade with San Diego for right-handed pitcher Cory Burns. He is out of options.

"He's very athletic," said Manny Acta. "He's an interesting guy in camp. We're giving him an opportunity to play left and right. He even played some center field in a B game. He's definitely an athletic guy. I can see why he's been traded a couple times. He's an attractive guy."

Drafted by the White Sox in 2005, Cunningham was traded to Arizona in 2007, then to Oakland six months later. The A's dealt him to San Diego in 2010 in a deal that brought Oakland former Indians third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff.

Both played Monday. Cunningham doubled. Canzler, who was designated by Tampa Bay before being dealt for cash considerations to the Indians, started at first and had two hits.

"Being a competitor you never want to get designated from the 40-man roster," Canzler said Monday. "I was a little surprised, especially how late into the off-season it happened. ... But I feel like there's an opportunity for me here."

OK, after all: Felix Pie, who left Sunday's game against Texas after slamming into the center field wall, sat out Monday's workout.

"I'm fine," Pie said. "After I hit the wall, I was fine. Today I'm a little sore in my neck. They gave me today off, but I think I'll be back on the field [Tuesday]."

Pie said he was not tested for a concussion because he never hit his head while attempting to catch a shot to right center.

"I saw the ball," he said. "I was keeping my eye on the ball. Then I look for the wall, saw it for one second and boom."

Next up: The Indians play Texas Tuesday at Goodyear Ballpark. Josh Tomlin gets the start. Also pitching: Hector Ambriz, Jeanmar Gomez, Chen-Chang Lee and Zach McAllister.

Japanese sensation Yu Darvish will start for the Rangers. The Indians expect between 100-150 media requests for the game.

Finally: Acta said the Indians will see how first baseman Casey Kotchman feels Tuesday. He's missed two games with lower back stiffness. ... Closer Chris Perez played catch from 120 feet. ... Raffy Perez threw a bullpen session under Acta's watch. The manager said he will face batters shortly. ... The Indians announced a two-year Player Development Contract extension with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers (short-season A) of the New York-Penn League that will run through 2014.

On Twitter: @budshaw

Hillis is one of several Browns -- along with cornerback Dimitri Patterson -- who will test the waters, although the team can continue to negotiate.

View full sizeJoshua Gunter, The Plain DealerBrowns GM Tom Heckert can officially begin to pursue other free agents at 4 p.m. on Tuesday. The team will also be paying attention to any offers received by current Browns such as Peyton Hillis and Dimitri Patterson.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Peyton Hillis said Monday he'll definitely hit the free-agent market when the doors swing open at 4 p.m. Tuesday, and it remains to be seen whether he'll wear a Browns uniform again.

Hillis is one of several Browns -- along with cornerback Dimitri Patterson -- who will test the waters. Hillis' agent, Jimmy Sexton, has been in contact with the team, but nothing is expected to be done by the time free agency starts.

Hillis, who has remained in Cleveland this off-season and likes it here, told The Plain Dealer he'd take a hometown discount to return. But the Browns will let him test the market and see what kind of offers he gets. Browns General Manager Tom Heckert has said he'd be interested in Hillis at the right price.

Hillis' camp expects there to be interest from other teams, but it's tough to gauge until teams can officially contact players and agents. The top-tier players -- including Peyton Manning, Vincent Jackson and Mario Williams -- are expected to fly off the shelf fast.

"It's going to be the NFL's version of running with the bulls," agent David Dunn told NFL Network Monday. "You better run fast or you're going to get trampled."

How fast will be the Browns be running? Heckert said last week the Browns are "not going to go crazy" in free agency and cautioned that it's "buyer beware" in the frenzied period.

"You talk about the guys now, there's some reason the team doesn't want him," said Heckert. "They didn't franchise him, they didn't sign him, whatever that reason is. There's something there."

Two other Browns free agents that could enter the NFL job fair, safety Mike Adams and tight end Alex Smith. The Browns are still working to get Adams under contract, but he's expected to attract interest because of his versatility. Adams, a ninth-year pro, can start at safety or corner and excels on special teams. He started all 16 games for the Browns last season, making 61 tackles and three interceptions.

As for Smith, who played in 14 games last season, his agent, Kevin Robinson, said: "We've had some discussions. We're still in talks with them, and I can't say if we'll get something done by [Tuesday]."

The Browns also would like to re-sign Patterson, but he'll definitely hit the market, a source said. Patterson is one of Heckert's free-agent success stories -- the second-tier gem he likes to find on the street.

"I think Dimitri helped us last year a lot," said Heckert. "Dimitri played almost 50 percent of the plays, maybe more. So yeah, there's definitely guys that can help you, and there's probably more guys like that that can help you than a $10 million-a-year guy."

Will the Browns go after Green Bay backup quarterback Matt Flynn? Heckert has said twice he probably won't find his starting quarterback in free agency, and if he abides by that, he'll pass on Flynn, who has two NFL starts and could command a $40 million to $50 million contract.

The Browns GM is also not expected to go after Oakland quarterback Jason Campbell, and it's unknown if he'll pursue Arizona quarterback Kevin Kolb in the event the Cardinals sign Peyton Manning.

The Browns head into free agency about $19.4 million under the salary cap, counting the $2 million they'll gain when they officially release Tony Pashos, who's been told he'll be let go, according to his agent. The Browns also might try to clear some room by restructuring contracts. One candidate could be guard Eric Steinbach, who's coming off back surgery and is due to make $6 million this season.

The Browns will most likely pursue a receiver in free agency, and there are some good ones available even though Philadelphia's DeSean Jackson, Buffalo's Stevie Johnson and Kansas City's Dwayne Bowe either re-signed with their teams or were franchised.

Some intriguing prospects include Colts receiver Pierre Garcon, who played at Mount Union, and the Giants' Mario Manningham, who made the key catch in this year's Super Bowl victory. Others include New Orleans' Robert Meachem and Dallas' Laurent Robinson. The Browns are not expected to pursue the Saints' Marques Colston, a source said.

The Browns also are expected to hunt for a right tackle, and one that would seem to be a good fit is Buffalo's Demetrius Bell, who's still in his prime at 28. Browns offensive tackle Artis Hicks, who can start on the right side, is also expected to enter free agency. The Browns can also try to re-sign offensive tackle Oniel Cousins.

On Twitter: @marykaycabot

A sluggish start of the Gladiators puts team in comeback mode, but Georgia scores late to take the victory.

Stan Awtrey

Special to The Plain Dealer

DULUTH, Ga. -- The Cleveland Gladiators allowed a pair of fourth-quarter scores to negate an improbable comeback in a 41-39 loss to the Georgia Force in the Arena Football League opener.

The Gladiators set the tone early when quarterback John Dutton threw an interception on the first play of the game and the team failed to score in the first period. They trailed by two scores midway in the third quarter before starting their comeback.

"That was a rough start we didn't expect," said Cleveland coach Steve Thonn. "You can't go scoreless in the first quarter."

The Gladiators were behind, 28-13, with 8:20 left in the third quarter when it scored on three consecutive possessions: a 19-yard TD pass from Dutton to Thyron Lewis, a 2-yard keeper by Dutton and a 20-yard throw to Lewis that gave the Gladiators a 32-28 lead, its first of the night with 12:58 remaining.

Georgia's Larry Shipp caught a 20-yard touchdown pass with 6:10 left to put the Force ahead, 34-32. The Force put it away when Jeremy Grier intercepted Dutton for a 17-yard touchdown and a 41-32 lead.

"I'm not sure what happened. I know he got hit," Thonn said. "In that situation you've got to keep the ball and at least get a field goal."

Cleveland scored on Derik Steiner's 1-yard run, but the Gladiators couldn't recover the onside kickoff and Georgia was able to run out the clock.

"We got ourselves in a hole, which is a shame because our defense played a great game," Shonn said. "We took the lead and had a chance."

Dutton completed 27 of 43 passes for 308 yards and four touchdowns, with four interceptions. Lewis caught 11 passes for 152 yards and three touchdowns and Dominick Goodman caught eight passes for 85 yards.

Georgia quarterback Darnell Kennedy completed 16 of 29 for 163 yards and three touchdowns. Shipp caught seven balls for 124 yards and three scores.

"It was a great comeback in the second half," Thonn said. "We just kept playing hard. I don't think either team was playing like they were capable of playing."

Stan Awtrey is a free-lance writer based in Atlanta.

Roberto Hernandez has cleared one hurdle in his attempt to rejoin the Indians. All he has to do now is go head-to-head with the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Consulate in the Dominican Republic.

View full sizeChuck Crow, The Plain DealerRoberto Hernandez cleared one legal hurdle in the Dominican Republic and could be back in Arizona with the Indians before spring camp breaks.

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Roberto Hernandez, the pitcher formerly known as Fausto Carmona, has cleared one hurdle in his attempt to rejoin the Indians. But he still has legal maneuvering to do.

The Associated Press reported Monday night that Hernandez has agreed to a deal that would have the false identity charges against him dropped in exchange for completing a work program in his native Dominican Republic. The deal, according to one source, solves Hernandez's problem with the Dominican Republic government.

Hernandez, however, still must clear inspection from the U.S. Consulate and the Department of Homeland Security to obtain a waiver or visa that would allow him access to the United States.

It has been rumored that Hernandez could rejoin the Indians in spring training by this weekend. That has been disputed by several sources, but Hernandez's handlers appear confident that enough progress is being made to allow him to resume his career sometime this year.

"We continue to monitor the developments related to Roberto's return to the United States and remain in touch with his representatives," said Indians GM Chris Antonetti. "We are not able to elaborate beyond that at this point."

Hernandez is currently on the restricted list, which means he cannot receive his $7 million salary and that he does not count against the Indians' 40-man roster.

When Hernandez was first arrested by the National Police in the Dominican Republic on Jan. 19 for using a false identification to apply for a visa to the U.S., there was a strong possibility that MLB would suspend him if he re-gained admission into the U.S. A suspension does not appear to be as definitive as it once was.

That could be tied to Carmona's work with young Dominican baseball prospects. He has been visiting independent baseball camps since his arrest, telling players not to let people coerce them into lying about their age for a bigger signing bonus.

The Indians signed Hernandez on Dec. 28, 2000. They believed he was Fausto Carmona, 17. Upon his arrest in January, it was revealed that Carmona was really Hernandez and that he was 31 instead of 28.

Hernandez, using Carmona's name, came to the United States from 2002-11 as a pitcher for the Indians. Hernandez's father, Beato, reportedly paid spiritualist Yohanny Solar Ventura $1 million Dominican pesos ($26,000 U.S.) to doctor a birth certificate with Carmona's name on it so that his son appeared three years younger than his actual age. Hernandez used that contract to sign with the Indians.

When Hernandez's father didn't pay Ventura, she went on a popular radio show in Santo Domingo in December, and outed Hernandez. Ventura's interview helped lead to Hernandez's arrest.

Hernandez made his big-league debut with the Indians in 2006. Last year he went 7-15 in 32 starts.

Two weeks away from the start of OSU spring practice, building the offensive foundation is the focus for Urban Meyer, offensive coordinator Tom Herman and the staff.

View full sizeJonathan Quilter, Columbus DispatchOhio State's new offensive coordinator Tom Herman says his "underdog offense" will work just fine in Columbus.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Coaches hate labels. So forget the spread. But as the Ohio State coaches have spent eight hours a day in recent weeks creating an offense under the direction of new coach Urban Meyer, let new offensive coordinator Tom Herman get more descriptive with just what it's going to look like.

"We're going to be a [shot]gun, spread, run-oriented football team that has tremendous balance through the play-action pass.

"We want to be no-huddle, we want to be up-tempo and use that to our advantage. And we want to be balanced. We want to run the football first to set up the throwing game.

"This is what we do, this is what we believe, this is how we are. You guys can call it what you want. We call it the Ohio State offense."

So it will be rather different from what fans have seen from the Ohio State offense in the last decade?

"That would be a true statement," Herman said in a recent interview in his office with The Plain Dealer.

A former offensive coordinator at Iowa State, Rice and Texas State, Herman will be dealing with elite talent for the first time. But he won't waver from his ideas about how to move the ball.

"Growing up in this system, when we first started, it was the 'underdog offense,' if you will," Herman said. "The places I've been have always had a talent deficit compared to 90 percent of the schedule, so I think this offense helped. I used to say, 'If I ever get to Ohio State or USC or Texas, we'd get in the I-formation and we'd just come off the football and maul people every Saturday.' And I took a step back the last few years and said, 'Why would I ever do that?' Now you've got an underdog offense and you put really good players in it and it's even better."

The head coach has won with elite talent at Florida, and it is clear the offense belongs to Meyer. He said he has spent little time with the defensive staff while focusing on imparting his ideas to his offensive staff, which he hired to follow him.

"I really took my time hiring coaches because I did not want to sell our style," Meyer said. "I'll tell them what do and expect them to do the very best they can, and I'm very pleased so far.

"We're knee deep in that. We're going to do what we do, we're going to run our offense, the Ohio State offense, and once we get that done, we'll take more ideas. The first thing is, 'What is the foundation of who we are?' and that's what we're really working on. As we grow, we'll take more outside influences. But not right now."

Meyer holds a news conference Tuesday to preview the spring practice, which begins on March 28. Here is what you need to know about the offensive ideas, as explained by Herman.

• The no-huddle will be the biggest change for the players:

"I don't know if culture shock is the right word, but that's a major philosophical change that these kids need to understand and get used to," Herman said. "We could call the whole offense without saying a word if we wanted to in terms of the skill guys. It's our own sign language and the kids learn it and it doesn't change over their careers.

"The tempo of not huddling, and once they blow the play dead you hurry up and get to the ball and be ready to snap it at any time, is going to be a learning curve."

View full sizeMarvin Fong, The Plain DealerHerman isn't worried about the physical demands the spread will put on sophomore QB Braxton Miller. "His body is his body. If he's banged up, we'll protect him," Herman said. "If he's not, we'll turn him loose. He's pretty darn good when he has the ball in his hands."

• Quarterback Braxton Miller will be in the shotgun most of the time, but there will be a package of plays under center:

"And we will huddle at times, too. I think that's important to deliver a mentality that we are a power, physical tough-running football team," Herman said. "From the gun, under center, it doesn't matter where are, that will be what our personality is going to be.

"If you have the ability to go under center, there are a few things that open up to you, but I think you have to be creative in the way that you do it. Just lining up in the I-formation and running power -- there are too many people in the box and defenses are too good. When we are under center it might be a little more creative than days of old, but we will get under center."

• Former coach Jim Tressel and his staff talked at times about the quarterback not taking too many hits and had an idea of how often he should run the ball. That isn't a real concern now. Herman thinks shotgun, dual-threat quarterback play will continue to get more popular in the NFL as well, so fearing for quarterbacks is out.

"They are so used to running that they know how to protect themselves a little bit more," Herman said. "When you're in space, that's not when guys get hurt. Guys get hurt in the pocket when they don't see guys coming and guys fall on their legs.

"But what, Braxton is 6-2, 215? That would be like having a 6-2, 215-pound running back out there. His body is his body. If he's banged up, we'll protect him. If he's not, we'll turn him loose. He's pretty darn good when he has the ball in his hands."

• The staff is getting the basics down in choosing terminology, most of it borrowed from Meyer's previous stops, and hand signals and a playbook. But Herman thinks a playbook is almost antiquated.

"Playbooks are very overrated. They help make sure your coaches are aligned and saying the same things, but if we gave the kids a playbook, it would be overwhelming," Herman said. "They don't learn that way. You've got find creative ways, like checkers on a board and walkthroughs and power point presentations, to teach them.

"Yes, we have a playbook, it's still a work in progress. But the main thing is to make sure the staff is using the same terminology and buzzwords with our players."

• The Buckeyes hope they get everything they want into the offense by the end of spring practice. Herman said the offense is fluid, so he does not ever believe in saying 100 percent or 70 percent or 50 percent of the offense is "in."

"We'll get in enough to be good at it, and we aren't going to move forward until we feel like we mastered our core values," Herman said. "How far we get is how far we get, and that will be the whole offense."

• The key to mastering new terminology and hand signals is forgetting the old: Herman used the example of learning "agua" in Spanish. That word doesn't mean "water," it means that clear liquid you drink.

"You don't want them ever to say, 'Deuce right,' that's what we used to call 'Slot right.' No, no, no. That's 'Deuce right' until the day you graduate," Herman said. "But you've got to train them not to think that way, because it's human nature to want to translate it into what you already know."

• A lot could change once the staff gets out of theory and into the practice of finding their playmakers starting with spring practice. And they are eager to do it.

"I can't wait to put the pads on," Herman said. "You understand that no matter how much detail you go into so everything on that first day is so precise, it's still day one of spring ball in a new offense, so you have to temper your expectations a little bit. But at the same time, your prepare yourself and the kids and your staff to go be as detailed as you can.

"Coach Meyer was just telling them you are going to be the best-coached team in America. We may not win them all, but you're going to be the best-coached team and you will play with the best fundamentals and you will be the toughest, hardest-playing team in the country.

"From there, we'll figure out how to teach the zone-read and all that stuff. That's the exciting part, to get that time on the field to wrap your arms around them and really teach them."

The four sports celebrity contestants Jeff Verdone will compete against will be unveiled Wednesday and Thursday.

View full sizeJeff Verdone is going with the chalk picks in his NCAA bracket.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Jeff Verdone signed his NCAA bracket with, "Representing the best fans in the world." So he understands the responsibility of carrying an entire community on his back.

Verdone, 23, was randomly chosen from 98 online contest entries to represent Cleveland sports fans with a spot in The Plain Dealer's sixth annual Celebrity Bracketology Challenge. The four sports celebrity contestants Verdone will compete against will be unveiled Wednesday and Thursday.

"I do feel a little bit of pressure," Verdone said, "but I feel pretty confident with my picks. I'm going to try to bring it home."

• Check out Jeff Verdone's bracket

Home for Verdone is Euclid. He's a 2007 Painesville Riverside High grad who was raised a huge Cleveland sports fan. His mother, Jeanne, was among a group of 20-something female Mike Hargrove fans who would sit behind a "Hargrove Howlers" banner at old Cleveland Municipal Stadium.

Like many people, Verdone will be glued to some sort of screen throughout the NCAA men's basketball tournament.

"I'll watch almost every game, whether it's on my phone, computer or TV -- especially this year, now that I got chosen," he said.

So, what has he chosen?

Verdone, a tire technician at the Sam's Club in Mentor, stuck mainly with lower seeds, although he took a few risks: No. 7 Florida over No. 2 Missouri in the second round; No. 11 Colorado over No. 6 UNLV, because he believes the Buffaloes benefit from a tougher schedule.

He picked No. 2 Ohio State to escape Florida State and advance to the Elite Eight before losing to No. 1 Syracuse. Kentucky is his choice to beat Syracuse for the national championship, from a Final Four that includes Michigan State and Kansas.

"I know the best team doesn't always win," Verdone said, "but for some reason, I think we're going to see the absolute best win the whole thing this year."

WWE Superstar and actor The Rock returns to Cleveland on Monday night after nine years since his last appearance in Cleveland. He talks with cleveland.com's Glenn Moore about coming back, his career and his Wrestlemania match with John Cena in Miami on April 1st. Watch video

Finally, The Rock has come back, to Cleveland!

After nine long years since WWE Superstar and actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson made his last appearance in Cleveland, he returned Monday night to a sold out Quicken Loans Arena and stole the spotlight.

Hyping his Wrestlemania 28 match with John Cena, The Rock held a "Rock Concert" at the end of the show, singing and playing the guitar in the ring while ripping on his opponent.

Cleveland.com's Glenn Moore had the chance to speak with The Rock before the event and talked about everything from his career to coming back from acting to his match with Cena in Miami on April 1st.

Here's today's and tonight's sports listings for TV and radio for the Cleveland area.

Joshua Gunter, The Plain DealerCleveland State guard Trevon Harmon (with the basketball) and the Vikings will visit Stanford in an NIT game tonight at 11. The game will be televised on ESPN2 and broadcast on WHKW/1220-AM.

CLEVELAND, Ohio

Today's sports TV and radio listings

(Click onto links for more team and event information)

BASEBALL

4:05 p.m. INDIANS vs. Texas, SportsTime Ohio, MLB Network;

7 p.m. INDIANS vs. Texas, WMMS/100.7-FM (tape)

(Plain Dealer and cleveland.com Indians coverage)

MENS COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Tournament games

6:40 p.m. NCAA, Mississippi Valley State vs. Western Kentucky, TRUTV

7 p.m. NAIA DII final, CBS Sports Network

7 p.m. NIT, Savannah State at Tennessee, ESPNU

7 p.m. NIT, UMass at Mississippi State, ESPN2

7:30 p.m. NIT, Dayton at Iowa, ESPN

9 p.m. NIT, AKRON at Northwestern, ESPN2; WARF/1350-AM

(Plain Dealer and cleveland.com Akron, Kent State and MAC coverage)

9 p.m. NCAA, BYU vs. Iona, TRUTV

9:30 p.m. NIT, LSU at Oregon, ESPN

11 p.m. NIT, CLEVELAND STATE at Stanford, ESPN2; WHKW/1220-AM

(Plain Dealer and cleveland.com Cleveland State coverage)

NBA

7 p.m. Toronto at CAVALIERS, Fox Sports Ohio; WTAM/1100-AM

7 p.m. Miami at Orlando, NBATV

NHL

7:30 p.m. Carolina at N.Y. Rangers, NBC Sports Network

SOCCER

3:30 p.m. Champions League, Basel at Bayern Munich, Fox Sports Ohio

WOMENS COLLEGE BASKETBALL

9 p.m. NAIA DII final, CBS Sports Network

The Irish have always had a prominent role in the fight game. So it’s appropriate that a Cleveland son of Erin be remembered leading up to St. Patrick’s Day. Johnny Kilbane became the town’s first world champion when he won the featherweight title on Feb. 22, 1912, in Vernon, Calif., decisioning Abe Attel over 20 rounds.

Historical photoJohnny Kilbane

The Irish have always had a prominent role in the fight game. So it’s appropriate that a Cleveland son of Erin be remembered leading up to St. Patrick’s Day.

Johnny Kilbane became the town’s first world champion when he won the featherweight title on Feb. 22, 1912, in Vernon, Calif., decisioning Abe Attel over 20 rounds. He timed his train ride home perfectly, arriving to a raucous celebration on March 17.

The Irish American Archives and the Cleveland Public Library have put together a display and program to commemorate the 100th anniversary. On Thursday at 6:30 p.m., “The Fighting Heart of Johnny Kilbane” will be presented in music, memories and rare film footage of his title fight in the Louis Stokes Auditorium at the Cleveland Public Library downtown.

An exhibit will remain on display through April 30, then travel to various library branches through the fall.

On Friday, the Gordon Square Arts District also will do its part to remember Kilbane. A plaque will be installed at West 74th Street and Herman Avenue at the fighter’s old residence at 3 p.m. A reception will follow at Stone Mad Pub, 1306 W. 65th St., from 4-6 p.m.

Kilbane, who died in 1957 at age 68, held the 126-pound title until June 1923, compiling a 114-12-12 record, with 25 knockouts. Along with light heavyweight champion Joey Maxim (1950), they remain Cleveland’s only world champions.

Relive some of the good times. And remember, no fighting on St. Patrick’s Day.

Pavlik returns: Former middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik (37-2, 32 KOs) is expected to return to the ring on March 31 in San Antonio.

Promoter Top Rank Inc. has lined up Aaron Jaco (15-2, 5 KOs) of Sarasota, Fla., as the opponent in the 10-rounder at 168 pounds that will be telecast on the Azteca America network.

Pavlik has been training in Oxnard, Calif., under Robert Garcia since early January. It will be his first bout since leaving Youngstown’s Jack Loew, the only trainer he ever had.

Golden Gloves: The 84th Cleveland Golden Gloves amateur tournament will run April 6, 7, 14 and 21 at the Brook Park Recreation Center, 17400 Holland Road in Brook Park. Boxing begins each night at 7 p.m.

The boxer registration deadline is March 30 at 5 p.m., with weigh-ins the next day at the recreation center.

Tickets for the first three rounds are $20, with the finals $25. Admission for children 12-and-under is $10, $15 for finals, but those tickets will not be sold in advance. Table seating also will be available.

Call the Cleveland Amateur Golden Gloves office at 216-662-7445.

Results: In a slugfest, World Boxing Organization featherweight champ Orlando Salido (38-11-2, 26 KOs) retained his title against former champion Juan Manuel Lopez (31-2, 28 KOs) on a technical knockout in the 10th round last Saturday in Puerto Rico.

Lopez, who scored a knockdown, was in front on two scorecards. Salido stopped Lopez in the eighth round 11 months ago.

This date: Muhammad Ali decisioned Doug Jones over 10 rounds in New York in 1963.

Friday: The ESPN2 “Friday Night Fights” are in Cabazon, Calif., where Kendall Holt (27-5, 15 KOs) will meet Tim Coleman (19-1-1, 5 KOs) in a welterweight affair at 9 p.m.

Showtime’s “ShoBox” series will be in Indio, Calif., for a doubleheader. Lightweight Omar Figueroa (14-0, 11 KOs) faces Ramon Ayala (23-2, 11 KOs); and Randy Caballero (13-0, 7 KOs) meets 122-pounder Jose Luis Araiz (29-5, 20 KOs) at 11 p.m.

Saturday: HBO will be at Madison Square Garden to cap St. Patrick’s Day. Sergio Martinez (48-2-2, 27 KOs) has a middleweight match against Ireland’s Matthew Macklin (28-3, 19 KOs) at 10 p.m. This looks to be a good one.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter:

jmaxse@plaind.com, 216-999-5168

On Twitter: @JoeMaxse

Will the Cleveland Indians' rotation come together? The Plain Dealer's Paul Hoynes discusses that issue and more from spring training in this video from Cinesport.

Paul Hoynes reports from Indians spring training.

Will the Cleveland Indians' rotation come together?

That is one of the biggest questions at Tribe camp in Goodyear, Arizona. Will new addition Derek Lowe be effective? Can Ubaldo Jimenez become the Cleveland Indians' ace?

The Plain Dealer's Paul Hoynes discusses those issues and more from spring training in this video from Cinesport.

For more Cinesport video, go here.

Which No. 1 seed do you have winning it all?

APUConn, a No. 3 seed, won the NCAA Tournament in 2011.

Have you filled out your NCAA bracket yet? Do you have one of the No. 1 seeds winning it all? Or will you pick a lower seed to get crowned the NCAA Champion?

The NCAA Tournament starts tonight and Kentucky is the favorite to win the title. Surely, Syracuse, North Carolina and Michigan State all have legitimate shots to win the title, but which school do you have the most faith in?

No. 3 seed UConn won the title last year. Duke, a No. 1 seed, won the title in 2010.