Nevertheless, I have counted myself so lucky to be able to watch probably the greatest player to ever suit up for the BYU in Fredette.
There's little doubt that his name has become household around here when James runs around his little basketball hoop, puts up a shot, and when he makes it says "Yes...Jimmer Fdet!" He can't really pronounce Fredette, so he makes a funny little compact version.
But it's not just about Jimmer or Jimmermania. The whole Cougar team this year has been outstanding. Certainly Jackson Emery becoming the all times steals leader was a moment for the ages. Really every player has contributed to a remarkable year, and the way they've meshed together as a team is unparalleled in my basketball memory.
What has made it particularly satisfying as a fan is to watch and know that we are seeing Cougar history being made before our very eyes. I have really tried to enjoy every minute of the year because of that, and I don't remember reveling in basketball as much as I have this year. Generally for me it is just a placeholder for football.
I wanted to make this post before BYU's first MWC tournament game tomorrow. Because really it doesn't matter what happens in postseason play (aside from Jimmer getting 73 points to pass Danny Ainge), this season has already been simply amazing. And there will undoubtedly be that question...what if Chris Collinsworth had stayed healthy and Davies hadn't been suspended?
Those kind of questions will cheapen what can probably be called the most magnificent BYU basketball season of all time. Rather than focusing on what might have been, I choose to revel in what is - a phenomenal team that has been pure joy to watch.
My only regret will be that, living out in the northern Nevada desert, I didn't get to see a single live game this year. If the Cougars defy all odds and make it to the Final Four, though, Rebecca and I are going. Much more of a long shot without Davies, but here's hoping.
How about those Cougars! MWC champions and top ten basketball team in the country.
2 comments:
It was a great run. Too bad they couldn't pull it out against Florida, but it was such a fun year to follow BYU bball. Thanks for the post.
Collinsworth's free throw weakness finally caught up with them. Oh well, I enjoyed it nonetheless.
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