UConn’s Josh Boone vs. Ga. Tech’s Anthony McHenry

As a freshman, Boone automatically qualifies as one of coach Jim Calhoun’s favorite targets. Instead of wilting, Boone rose up to grab 14 rebounds against Duke. McHenry is a role player.

Edge: UConn

UConn’s Rashad Anderson vs. Ga. Tech’s B.J. Elder

Anderson continued his NCAA hot streak, making 3-of-5 treys and all five free throws against Duke. Elder remains hampered a by severely sprained ankle. If he suddenly finds health, it’s a draw.

Edge: UConn

UConn’s Emeka Okafor vs. Ga. Tech’s Luke Schenscher

Schenscher is as improved a player as there is in the nation. He beat Oklahoma State inside with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Against Duke, Emeka Okafor played as good a half of basketball as has ever been seen in the NCAA Tournament.

Edge: UConn

UConn’s Ben Gordon vs. Ga. Tech’s Marvin Lewis

Gordon, who scored 23 in the Big East championship game and 36 in the Phoenix Regional championship game, is at his best in big games. Lewis rebounded from a one-point performance against Kansas to hit 5-of-9 treys.

Edge: UConn

UConn’s Taliek Brown vs. Ga. Tech’s Jarrett Jack

Brown had his worst game in weeks against Duke, committing seven turnovers and missing six of eight shots. Jack has emerged as a tour de force in this tournament, scoring 29 against Kansas and getting 10 points, five assists and three rebounds against Okie St.

Edge: Ga. Tech

BENCH/INTANGIBLES

Georgia Tech’s bench has been the difference in its run to the title game, outscoring Oklahoma St., 15-4. The final play was called for Will Bynum, who is not a starter. UConn’s bench came up huge (16 points; 13 rebounds) against Duke. Brooklyn’s Charlie Villanueva is making NBA scouts salivate. Tech beat UConn 77-61 in the Garden on Nov. 26, when the Huskies were ranked No. 1. UConn wants revenge; Tech knows it can win.

Edge: Even

Jim Calhoun (679-302 in 32 seasons) vs. Paul Hewitt (141-60 in 7 seasons).

Calhoun improved to 34-14 in NCAA Tournament play, 31-9 at Connecticut. He’s going for his second national title. Imagine where St. John’s might be if it hired Hewitt, the hottest young coach in America, six years ago instead of Mike Jarvis?

Edge: UConn