The Final Four

I used to be a huge basketball fan. In the 90's the pro game was fast paced and exciting. It had colourful characters and some of the best players ever. Something happened about 10 years ago. The game slowed down and I lost interest. There are still some very good players and some exciting games but it is dominated by big guys banging down low. I don't blame anyone for this change. It probably gives you your best chance to win.

On the other hand, college basketball is still exciting. The players are not as big. There appears to be more passion, and the pace seems to be faster. Only the very best college players will ever play in the NBA, but that's ok.

I'm watching the Butler versus Michigan State semi-final game. This is what sport is supposed to be. This is a tight game and these kids are letting it all hang out. You know they will do whatever it takes to give their team a chance to win. The fans are nuts. They are cheering with reckless abandon. The coaches are animated and working as hard as they can to give their team a chance to win.

This will be the last game for the seniors on the losing team and the second last game for the seniors on the winning team. What an incredible way to wrap up your college career and maybe your basketball career. An international television audience and the opportunity to be the difference maker.

Collegiate sports are very important. They inspire and motivate the players and the student body. They bring pride to the institutions they represent. They make a difference. They show people why it is important to come through when people are counting on you and they show what happens if you don't hold up your end of the bargain.

I don't know what the rest of this tournament will bring but I can say for certain that some very special moments are made every year on the 63 games of the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship Tournament.