Four Kentucky freshmen, including All-Americans John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins, recently announced that they were all entering their names in the NBA draft pool. Kansas freshman guard Xavier Henry also declared himself eligible for the draft, along with a host of other first-year players. The one-and-done theme in college basketball is about as fashionable and … [Read more…]
The stage was set for one incredible shot. One shot to make history. One shot to win college basketball’s national championship. Unfortunately, real life did not imitate art. Butler had a chance to bring to life the unforgettable scene from the movie “Hoosiers” in which Jimmy Chitwood swishes a shot at the buzzer to give … [Read more…]
Holy Jimmy Chitwood! The Butler Bulldogs are in the national championship game. In a tournament that has seen more one-shining-moments in recent memory, Butler just became the shining example of why America loves the NCAA Tournament. Behind a rock-solid defense, the No. 5-seeded team from Indiana reached the championship game after overcoming Michigan State, 52-50, … [Read more…]
There must be something in the water in the state of Ohio because not only does it own the best player in the NBA in LeBron James, but the Buckeye state is also home to the top collegiate player in the nation. Kentucky’s John Wall may be the most spectacular backcourt player this season and … [Read more…]
Overanalyzing the NCAA Tournament bracket is about as common as allergies in springtime. That’s why they call it March Madness because college basketball followers, as well as non-followers, get too wrapped in sleepers, bracket-busters, upset specials and ESPN’s Bracketology. That last entry is the root of all evil. Can someone explain to me what is … [Read more…]
John R. Wooden celebrated his 99th birthday on Oct. 14. That’s 99 great years for a man who is considered the greatest coach in sports and one of the most influential people in the world. I had the honor of meeting Coach Wooden in March of 1995. To this day, that was the best interview … [Read more…]
Jonny Flynn’s one shining moment came and went in March during the Big East Conference tournament when he played 60-plus minutes in a five-overtime classic against Connecticut. Other than that one incredible night of Ironman basketball, Flynn’s resume is unspectacular. And, if you look closely at the Syracuse point guard’s overall dexterity, his shortcomings outweigh … [Read more…]
Michigan State’s incredible run in the NCAA tournament not only lifted the spirits of an entire state but it also secured Tom Izzo’s place among the elite coaches in the sport. Despite losing badly to North Carolina in the championship game before 72,000 pro-Michigan State fans at Detroit’s Ford Field, Izzo’s Spartans provided Michiganders an … [Read more…]
Tyler Hansbrough recently became the greatest scorer in North Carolina history. What does it mean for Hansbrough’s place among Tar Heel legends? Nothing. Absolutely, nothing. Hansbrough may be the No. 1 scorer in Chapel Hill, but he has a ways to go before he becomes a member of Tar Heel royalty. Heck, I have a … [Read more…]
Dick Vitale is the most influential figure in college basketball since John Wooden. Are you serious! Are you serious! Yes, I’m serious. Dickie V is more than just a TV commentator. He is the face and voice of college basketball for 30 years. What Michael Jackson was to MTV, Dick Vitale is to ESPN. Vitale’s … [Read more…]