March 20, 2006
One thing lost in the emotion of March Madness and teams advancing is the fact we say goodbye to so many talented players.
That's right, while teams survive and move on, there are a number of seniors who complete their careers with an L. That should not overshadow the accomplishments over four years.
Think about some of the stars who have played their last time on the collegiate hardwood. Syracuse's Gerry McNamara played so hard and gave us so many memorable moments. Look back at his freshman year when he hit six big trifectas, helping Jim Boeheim and the Orange cut down the nets in New Orleans. McNamara had a magical run in this year's Big East tournament when many people said Syracuse was on the bubble. Thanks for the memories, Gerry.
At Illinois, Dee Brown and James Augustine played in the championship game a year ago. The Illini fell short in the second round against Washington, but we will appreciate the winner's mentality shown by Brown and Augustine.
Michigan State made the Final Four a year ago and while the Spartans were disappointed with an early loss to George Mason, Paul Davis and Maurice Ager enjoyed great careers in East Lansing. I will miss seeing them in the Izzone.
Kevin Bookout was always a warrior for the Oklahoma Sooners, playing hurt and battling inside. Iowa's Jeff Horner and Greg Brunner were always giving 110 percent. Hassan Adams was an exciting player for the Arizona Wildcats. Patrick Sparks left it all on the court in a great effort despite a loss to Connecticut.
All of these guys were proud to wear their school's uniform. Unfortunately we won't see them on the college court any more.
Finally, when Kansas lost to Bradley in the first round, it marked the end of an illustrious career of Max Falkenstien calling games. Here's a man who broadcast contests featuring Wilt Chamberlain, Danny Manning and now the young Jayhawks under Bill Self. Max, you have always been a class act and I will miss you when I visit Lawrence. Best of luck to you and your family in the future.
Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in 1979. Send a question for Vitale for possible use on ESPNEWS.
