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Virginia vs. Hampton picks for the NCAA Tournament’s Midwest Region first-round game.

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With all due respect to Hampton, when a No. 16 upends a No. 1 seed, we’ll start really grading out their possibility in the opening round games. The Pirates did a wonderful job winning 21 games and coming out of the MEAC, but they are not anywhere near Virginia’s class.

There’s been a lot made of Virginia’s viability as a No. 1 seed, with some believing the honor should have been bestowed upon Michigan State. Maybe so, but do not for one second sleep on the Cavaliers and their ability to make a run. Tony Bennett is one of the game’s best young coaches, and his team plays exceptional defense. Virginia is fantastic at disrupting any kind of rhythm its opponent gets in, and the team’s star player, Malcolm Brogdon, will be a household name by the time the calendar turns to April.

Here’s a look at the Campus Insiders’ Virginia vs. Hampton picks.

Virginia vs. Hampton Picks

Pete Fiutak

The anti-Golden State will bore its way past Hampton, have to struggle to get by Butler, and then see its style of defensive basketball be put to the test against Purdue. And then there’s Michigan State waiting in the regional final. Thanks for playing.

Ray Crawford

Set ‘em up and knock ‘em down. Countless tourney teams have been handed a loss by the Cavaliers including wins over Miami. They meet their match in the Elite 8 against Michigan State.

Shae Peppler

The 1-seed from the Midwest region stays alive against a 16-seed in Hampton. This team slows you down and dictates tempo, it’s Tony Bennett’s recipe for success – that and he likes Taylor Swift.

Ken Bikoff

The Cavaliers will take Hampton seriously and will be ready to turn up the defense. Cavs roll.

Jordan Cornette

16 seeds are 0-124 in tournament history. That streak continues. 

More NCAA Tournament: Midwest Region Preview And Winner Pick