NCAA Tournament: Duke, Virginia Tech, Michigan State and LSU remain in East Region

Key players

Zion Williamson – Duke

Despite their close result in the second round, Zion Williamson is still averaging 28.5 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game in the NCAA Tournament for the Blue Devils. The Hokies will be all over him on Friday night so R.J. Barrett, Cam Reddish and Tre Jones will need to step up.

Although he injured his knee, Williamson has shown no signs of slowing down. He’s shooting 60 percent from the field and 4-of-9 (44.4 percent) from behind the arc through their first two contests. Look for him to have a big game on Friday night if Duke hopes to win.

Justin Robinson – Virginia Tech

Since his return, Justin Robinson has been coming off the bench. His 13 points off the bench against Liberty were key in their victory in the second round. His role will increase a whole lot more coming off the bench against the Blue Devils. Robinson also had four assists, two rebounds and two steals as well. As one of the best guards on the floor Friday, look for him to set himself apart with a big all-around performance.

Cassius Winston – Michigan State

Cassius Winston is producing 195 points, 6.5 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.0 steals per game in the NCAA Tournament. He scored 26 points on 8-of-17 shooting against the Bradley Braves in the opening round. In the second round, he had 13 points and nine assists in a 20-point win over the Minnesota Golden Gophers. He’ll need to put up similar numbers against an athletic LSU team on Friday night.

Skylar Mays – LSU

Skylar Mays has been a model of consistency on offense for the LSU Tigers in the NCAA Tournament. He’s averaging 17.5 points and 4.0 rebounds per game on 46.2 percent from behind the arc. He led the way in 3-pointers made against Maryland with four, including a decisive make to put them up 67-64 with 40 seconds left. His late-game heroics could be needed again against Michigan State.