Great expectations

t was going to be one of the greatest feelings I ever had as a sports fan. After all, it was local and I was a vibrant part of the community and — more importantly — the school. The entire region knew that it was in the bag; we were going to the big dance.

Our team had it all: a tremendous coach, a great record of 25-2 , the number one and number ten scorers in the nation, plus the number three rebounder and a point guard second to none.

A dagger in the heart

Everything seemed to point to an NCAA bid. And then it happened: We didn't get the call! We were all in shock, but at least we were going to the NIT.

Not so fast. The local papers the next morning seemed to hit the nail right on the head: "Broncs Black-Balled from the Post Season."

As a young college student — and a frequent courtside fan — I was flabbergasted. "What do we need to do to get into this stupid tournament?" Of course, everybody knows the answer to that one — join a conference.

Continued...