We are now nearing the end of a NCAA Tournament that was largely devoid of George Masons. Many people now mourn the loss of their brackets with the early exits of Memphis and Louisville.

However, local Spartans fans are certainly relishing the upset win they put on the Cards to reach the Final Four, and undoubtedly, their ability to overcome Louisville’s stifling defense surprised almost everyone. Outstanding guard play and balanced offense has helped get MSU on the verge of a national title berth.

Meanwhile, Villanova, the other non-number one seed to reach the Final Four, has looked nothing less than fierce with their aggressive defense and clutch play.

Nova will have a tall, tall order attempting to upset UNC, who has looked relentless with the return of Ty Lawson from turf toe. UNC has to be the national title favorite. Even if an opponent shuts down one of the Tarheels’ offensive threats, be it Tyler Hansbrough, Danny Green or Ty Lawson, the other two will easily score 20 to 30 points.

The post play of Hansbrough, as well as his aptitude for avoiding foul trouble, will cancel out any other big man in the country. The ‘Heels can survive both a scrappy, low-scoring game or an offensive shoot-out.

The Huskies of UConn, in the meantime, seem the likely choice over MSU. Of course, everyone thought that about the Spartans against Louisville. The Huskies have one thing the Cards lacked against State, however — an inside presence.

And Hasheem Thabeet is one of the most formidable post players in the nation. If he gets into a foul trouble, and he is prone to it, State will have a chance.

All four Final Four teams will play this Saturday with MSU facing UConn at 6:07 p.m. and Nova facing UNC around 8:47 p.m.

The Final Four is being held in Detroit at Ford Field.