How Fast Can YOU Jump?

So, how fast can everyone get off the West Virginia bandwagon? That seems to be the question this morning...people are stomping each other to get off. Yes, I was prepared to write an entire article about how the Mountaineers wouldn't get past the 2nd round and about how they don't play as a team as they once did. I was going to write about Gansey's injury and the death of the team if he can't play. I was going to write about how the officials gave WVU every call and they still couldn't take advantage. But, then I read some messages that I saw...things like: "Calling first round out for the mounties...they play with no enthusiasm anymore..." and "WVU=overrated" and "at school, where the mountaineers bball team should be cuz they def. arent gonna win a game in the ncaa tourney..." and more of the same...so, I changed my mind. I'm not going to pile on to this team that accomplished a whole lot...instead, I will defend them today.

1) WVU has overachieved since Beilein arrived. He has taken a bunch of players no one (aside from Richmond and St. Bonaventure) wanted and turned them into a national powerhouse. No one expected the Elite Eight run last year and no one should have expected it this year.

2) WVU has still had a good season this year. Playing in the toughest conference in the nation, this team managed to finish 3rd in the Big East and received a bye in the tournament. Granted, they lost in the Second Round, but they were still there...4-teams in the Big East didn't even get that far.

3) They have hung around the Top 25 all year which means tons of national exposure for the team and for the university. And that helps recruiting. The ramifications of the success of this team will be felt for years to come. When was the last time that happened for WVU basketball...the '50s?

4) They're not done. Yes, they could lose in the 1st or 2nd round...or they could go to the Elite Eight again...or better. Who knows? It's a weird team...don't count them out.

But, regardless of what they do in the NCAA tournament, this is a team that has been largely successful and brought enthusiasm back to WVU basketball. How many people cared about WVU basketball in 2001? How many thought this team was done after the Hargett problems and Catlett leaving and Dakich running away? I did. I know you did too. But look at where we're at today...crying because WVU might now get to the Elite Eight or the Big East championship game. I feel your pain too...but, don't forget that you wouldn't be watching if it weren't for this special team.