It's Tourney Time

Now that we've gone over our proverbial mission statement, I'd like to tell you a little about my favorite part of the college hoops season. Conference tourney time. The very thought sends chills coursing through my body. It's my favorite time of the year, as I'm sure it is for many, for the simple fact that most every school(save those who don't qualify for their conference tournaments) has a chance to stamp their ticket to the Big Dance. This is particularly true in the mid-to-low major conferences. Take VMI for example. After starting the year with a flurry of high-scoring slug-fests(some not so fruitful), the Keydets pulled it together and made a convincing run to the Big South Tournament Title Game. They eventually fell short to perennial league juggernaut and giant killer, Winthrop.

Year after year, stories abound that illustrate the meaning and unpredictable nature of Championship Week. From the 1999 Florida A&M squad to the 2005 Oakland University ball club, teams that struggled during the regular season have a chance to save their seasons and etch their names in Championship Week history. Yes, this is truly a hoop head's dream week. So batten down the hatches, hide the women and children and enjoy a week of heartbreak and ecstasy!