Hasta La Vista, Pitt B Ball

Tonight was the Pitt Men's Basketball banquet at the Hilton in downtown Pittsburgh. Jon, Bethany and I went, along with our favorite team manager, Jeremy. The highlight of the evening was a video tribute to our team, culminating in the Big East Championship game against Georgetown in Madison Square Garden. It was a season of exciting dunks and steals, shots from downtown, awesome blocks. It was a time of thrilling highs (beating Georgetown twice, and Duke at MSG) and devastating lows (injuries to Levance and Mike). But tonight was a night to celebrate and also, to say goodbye.

Everyone knows my favorite player has been Ronald Ramon, and he was honored numerous times this evening. He got an award for Most Outstanding Defensive player; Team Captain; and the Jaron Brown Pursuit of Academic Excellence Award. Yeah Ronald! He also was honored for achieving the goal of making over 1,000 points in his career.

I was surprised to find out that Mike Cook had the best percentage at the free throw line on our team. Jamie Dixon talked about how they are working to get Mike another year of eligibility to play because of his injury. I wouldn't say the prospect is very promising, but they are holding out some hope.

The Most Inspirational Player went to Levance Fields. Who couldn't have guessed that? He is such a presence and a leader. Kudos Levance!

A remarkable thing about Keith Benjamin (pictured, with me) is that he ALWAYS, in every interview, mentions what an influence his mother has on him. He never fails to mention that she is his #1 fan and always believed in him. Jeremy said she travelled to every game. Never missed.

We had a wonderful ride this year with this team. We were fortunate Jeremy was able to get us tickets to every home game, and any away game that we cared to attend. They have entertained us beyond our wildest dreams. And so, as we say our final goodbyes to Ronald Ramon, Maurice Pollen, and Keith Benjamin, (and maybe Mike), I also want to say thanks. Thanks for the thrills. And to the rest of the team, see ya next year when the ball begins to bounce once again.