NCAA

Sad Week for IU Fans

IMG_0472[1]IU started out as a preseason #1 and won the regular season Big Ten title, even spending time at #1 during the season. They were a #1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, but got knocked after making it to the Sweet Sixteen. It was an exciting season to be sure and confirmed Indiana’s return to relevance in college basketball.

This week is sad for many IU fans. Victor Oladipo had a monster season and put himself in the running for player of the year. It was obvious he could play at the next level. A few days ago, he made the announcement. He is going to the NBA.

Today, Cody Zeller made the same announcement. I, along with a host of Hoosier fans I’m sure, had hoped he would stick around for another year. I could say it was because I wanted him to get better. Selfishly, I wanted to see him in the Crimson and Cream for at least one more season to help IU continue to get better.

Here’s a copy of his announcement that was posted on Inside the Hall:

Cody Zeller confirms that he will make himself eligible for the 2013 NBA Draft: “Two years ago, I made one of the best decisions of my life to attend and play basketball at Indiana University. My experience here at IU has been unforgettable and has surpassed my expectations, making me even more confident that I made the best college decision. Attending and playing basketball for IU not only fulfilled my collegiate dreams, but it also has provided me with the opportunity to fulfill my lifelong goal of playing in the NBA. While I will continue to pursue my degree in the future, I believe it is in my best interest to pursue my professional basketball career in the NBA next season.”

IU Going to Sweet Sixteen

Coach Tom Crean tweeted the link to this video.  It is the final seconds of the game and the post-game celebration after IU pulled it out over VCU.  It was a great game and exciting win.  Love the candidness of the video.  I know there are other teams who felt the same thing over the week.  Gotta love March Madness!

First Unoffical Visit

If you have been reading much of this blog, I’ve posted a number of things from my daughter’s basketball endeavors and accomplishments.  She experienced a successful summer with her Cincinnati Angels teammates and from that, had exposure to college coaches.  Playing in the OGBR Top 64 also gave her the opportunity to get in front of college scouts again.

This weekend we make our first unofficial visit to a college basketball program.  We have another one lined up for next weekend and a few coaches are coming to watch her at her high school practices or games.

This is all brand-new for us and obviously, pretty exciting. Syd’s desire is to play at the next level and she has been working hard toward that.  We are looking forward to seeing what doors open up for her.

For now we will get as much info as we can and she will continue working on her game.  Be interesting to see what the next few months have in store.