Twitter and the blogosphere are still alive with the news that St. Bonaventure University’s Men’s basketball team got snubbed by the NCAA. While those facts have not changed, it’s time to move on. Let’s demonstrate to the world that’s watching what it means to be a Bonnie and a Franciscan University. People get knocked down all the time and they get back up, dust themselves off and keep moving. Let’s face it, if the Bonnies had gotten into the NCAA tournament they might easily have been eliminated after one game. The University would have made a large sum of money but “one and done” would have likely been the case. Now, however, their selection in the NIT as the #1 seed in their region raises the spectre of possibly two more games at the Reilly Center. That’s national recognition of the Reilly Center and of St. Bonaventure University. Like St. Francis said we get to “preach the gospel” every day and what better way to preach than to showcase the University we love with some positive coverage. Life serves up lemons from time to time and we have an opportunity to make some tasty lemonade this spring. My only regret is that I won’t be on hand for the games. A prior commitment keeps me from being there and cheering on the team that I love. Let’s use this opportunity to showcase the place that we love and bring more Bonnies to this lovely campus and to our larger St. Bonaventure University family.
#Bonnies Make it to the NIT
I admit that I was disappointed that the St. Bonaventure University men’s basketball team didn’t get the nod from the NCAA selection committee tonight. It seems the process is skewed in favor of better television markets than those of Olean and Allegany, New York. Nonetheless, the Bonnies made it as the number one seed at the NIT. There is no doubt that the NIT is a bit less prestigious but it’s chock full of very talented teams and there’s a good chance that if St. Bonaventure shows up with their “A” game that they can advance a couple of games. I’m an avid fan of St. Bonaventure Basketball and I only missed one home game this year. A longstanding commitment ensures that my string will be broken on Wednesday night when the team takes on Wagner College. I’ll be listening over the internet or trying to connect on ESPN3. I wish them the best.
I’ve been following St. Bonaventure basketball since the days fo Bob Lanier and this year’s team is among the best the university has fielded in that time. Last fall I told one of my friends that I didn’t expect much from this year’s team. Their lack of height and depth spelled trouble I thought. I was so wrong. This year’s team has played extremely well and they’ve provided those of us who attend their games lots of great moments. I wish them the best and thank them for all they’ve done to make our winter nights easier this season. Go Bonnies.