Mar 22 2009
Day 3
The games were more exciting than the final scores dictated. In the end, there were no real surprises or upsets. Gonzaga got past WKU after a full court final seconds push for a layup. The Zags are an interesting model for mid-majors and small teams. If you want the respect of the national media, non-local fans and more importantly the selection committee, you have to win big games in the regular season and in the NCAA tournament. The Zags have been doing this for a few years now, and they get the respect due to their accomplishments. No longer do they have to sweat out making the tournament, as long as they have their typical regular season, they will get in. In order to pull this off, Gonzaga had to continue for years to dominate it’s conference, and then started pulling off upsets in the tournament. Could WKU do the same thing? After last years’ sweet 16 trip, a first round win this year and close loss to Gonzaga, they might be able to build that case. But next year, they have to again duplicate the success. I don’t think the selection committee has as part its criteria a “past success” bonus, but even the name recognition of success has to go a long way. Build on it WKU!
