At the end of the NCAA Tournament this year I will probably drive the people I’m watching the national championship with crazy. They’ll want to change the channel as soon as CBS announcer Jim Nantz has delivered his annual cliche at the end of the game.

You know, like, “Rock Chalk Championship.

Two time zones and 2,300 miles away, Illinois and Western will tip-off at the Rose Garden in Portland, Ore., tonight. Left at home are legions of Hilltopper fans unable to make the cross-country trip on four days notice in tough economic times. Being far away from the action won’t keep the Western faithful from gathering.

PORTLAND, Ore.-On the court in the NCAA tournament, players face challenges such as offensive schemes, opposing defenses and either catching up or staying ahead in games.

Senior guard Trent Meacham (6-2, 9.8 PPG, 2.5 RPG) Meacham shoots 41 percent from three-point distance and appears to be the Illini’s only threat from downtown. Even with just one consistent threat from three-point range, the Illini will still spread the floor, making quick passes, probably eventually finding a mid-range shot.