Archive for Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Archive for Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Sweet! KU’s title is awesome

April 9, 2008

How sweet it is! Many loyal Kansas Jayhawk fans and alumni will long remember the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas where the Jayhawks made history making records defeating Memphis for the National Championship last Monday.

This game will go down as my most exciting championship game since following college basketball. Coach Bill Self and his Hawks were well prepared and it was defense-defense-defense propelling the Jayhawks to the title after downing a worthy opponent, the North Carolina Tar Heels, which made many Kansas fans ecstatic.

This was the long-awaited game - Kansas vs. North Carolina - but we all know it was all about Roy Williams. Now that the Hawks fans have wallowed in glory defeating North Carolina, I think its time to bury the animosity.

In the title game Mario Chalmers hit a three pointer that sent the game into overtime. I don't think there was ever a shot by a Kansas player that was more important.

In my estimation any one of 4 or 5 players could have been named MVP of the game but it was Chalmers who received the honor. But, how can we forget the performances of Arthur, Kaun, Rush, Robinson, and the rest of the Kansas players for an outstanding game.

The key to both victories in the Final Four was due to the defense and depth of the Jayhawks bench. Seven-footer Cole Aldrich made his presence know big time in the game against North Carolina. I think the tenacious Kansas defense wore down both the Tar Heels and the Memphis Tigers.

The ingredients to win a National Title consist of a good coach, talented players, a great defense and a little luck. As Chalmers said after the game in regard to the overtime, Self reminded us to have faith.

I think this year's Jayhawks team has set a new standard in Kansas basketball by winning more league and tournament titles and now the National Championship. Self will go down in Kansas basketball history joining Phog Allen, Larry Brown and Roy Williams. This great team will probably be somewhat dismantled before next season, losing some quality seniors and possible 1 or 2 to the NBA. But, Coach Self, known for his recruiting ability, has another great class coming in next year. The Jayhawks team will also go down in NCAA Final Four history with all four No. 1 seeds advancing to the Final Four.

One highlight worth mentioning that doesn't appear in the statistics is a shot of Mario Chalmers after the final buzzer running down courtside to hug his mother. Some contend this is the best Kansas team ever and I would agree with that opinion.

Rumors are still flying about the possibility of Coach Self departing for Stillwater, Okla., to coach Oklahoma State. But, I feel most of these rumors are coming out of Stillwater with wishful thinking. I look for Coach Self to be back next year.