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Key Matchup » The guards. Both teams play three with no primary ball-handler. Villanova’s Corey Stokes (hamstring, turf toe) and Corey Fisher (knee) have been hobbled for the last month, contributing to the Wildcats’ recent woes. After a nine-day layoff, coach Jay Wright has declared them healthy.

How George Mason can win » Force turnovers, run and share the ball. The Patriots are at their best in unsettled situations, getting the ball upcourt quickly and passing for open layups and 3-pointers. They are not nearly as effective in the halfcourt, though forward Ryan Pearson (14.4 ppg, 6.8 rpg) is a weapon in the low post.

How Villanova can win » Defend the 3-pointer. George Mason is one of the best 3-point shooting teams in the tournament (40 percent). Through 22 games, Villanova had limited opponents to 29 percent from the arc. Since then, however, injuries have hurt the Wildcats’ ability to get to perimeter shooters, and they’ve allowed 39 percent.

Player to watch » Mouphtaou Yarou. The sophomore center from Montrose Christian has been inconsistent for Villanova. When he has scored nine or more points, the Wildcats have gone 11-3. Yarou took a hard fall in the Big East tournament, suffering bruised ribs and a shoulder injury. With him out of the lineup, Villanova blew a 16-point lead and lost to South Florida.

X-Factor »

A fast start is imperative for Villanova. After losing five straight (the most ever for a team entering the tournament) and 10 of their last 15, the Wildcats’ confidence has to be low despite their proclamations this week of renewed strength with the start of the tournament. A slow start could rekindle the doubts.

Examiner Predicts » George Mason 78, Villanova 74

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