The clock winded down, and the green and white fans rose to their Spartan feet to cheer on yet another Sweet 16 berth and yet another NCAA Tournament victory over the University of Virginia Cavaliers. For all Wahoos out there, this one stung, and it stung even more than last year. Last year was magical, and the ride was incredibly enjoyable. And while last year's loss hurt deeply, we could always fall back on a great underdog season and proving to be an ACC force to be reckoned with.
This year, expectations were sky high as the winning streak continued and the ranking climbed all the way to number 2. Even with Justin Anderson's injuries and ailments, the Cavaliers prevailed. Experienced players stepped their game up, and UVA maintained their level of play through the end of the regular season.
Despite this crushing blow, students, alumni, and all fans of the man on the horse should be incredibly proud of the season our basketball program had and be extremely optimistic for the future.
Back-to-back thirty-win seasons is nothing to be disappointed over. This two-year period has arguably been the most successful in UVA basketball history — counting Ralph Sampson's years. Two consecutive regular season titles have certainly placed Virginia with Duke and UNC as an ACC powerhouse. Behind veteran leaders and impeccable defense, Virginia climbed to its highest ranking in over thirty years, setting Charlottesville abuzz with hype and happiness. ESPN finally stopped looking at the Carolina blue and Devils in Durham to pay attention to another team dominating every ACC opponent. Virginia is back on the map and is here to stay.
Each student always looks forward to November when they can pack JPJ and cheer their lungs out for the Cavaliers. Being in the student section for basketball games is one of the most exciting experiences while attending school, and it isn't too bad as a regular fan either. The high success this year and last have gained notable attention from Virginia alumni and fans, and they return the favor by always cheering for the Wahoos until the bitter end. Consistently John Paul Jones Arena sells out for a team that truly plays basketball the right way.
It's hard to argue against winning, and at home Virginia has done just that. The Cavs have lost only two ACC games at home in the last two years, and it is a luxury to have that kind of success. Many of us fans take that kind of record for granted. The passion, teamwork and sportsmanship were on the court, night in and night out. It is and always will be a pleasure to watch the Hoos play.
I think some fans tend to forget just how good Michigan State is. Tom Izzo and the Spartans don't always sport the best record heading into March, but that is when they always get hot. They are one of the most consistent programs in the country, and it isn't a disappointment to lose to such a great and formidable opponent. Virginia put it all on the line, but it wasn't there that day.
But based on awards alone, the credentials show a highly successful season despite the early round exit. Bennett won his second consecutive ACC coach of the year and was recently named by USA Basketball Writers Association as the National Coach of the Year. This year Malcolm Brogdon made 1st Team All-ACC, Justin Anderson made 2nd team even with his fractured finger and considerable time missed, and Darion Atkins was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year. Virginia stayed disciplined all season and earned the awards for their hard work, perseverance, and of course their ability to succeed not only as individuals, but as a team.
One season has ended, but that doesn't mean the end of an era. Virginia's future is bright — very, very bright. We aren't going anywhere for a long time to come. Led by one of the best coaches in the country, Virginia battled against teams with highly recruited All-Americans and came out victorious. It is a testament to the team's work ethic and competitiveness. And that will keep success going. It isn't always about flashy plays, or high-flying dunks. Sometimes it's about putting the ball in the basket and preventing the other team from doing that same thing.
Next year will be even better than this year, with many returners (if you are reading this Justin, please come back!) and young players ready to step up into bigger roles. The country better watch out for Virginia again next year, because there won't be another early round exit. No sir, not at all.
