For years, one of Davidson’s finest athletic hallmarks has been our Men’s Basketball team. Often known for the 2008 Elite 8 NCAA Tournament run and Stephen Curry, the basketball team has always been a huge part of my Davidson school spirit. Ever since freshman year, my friends and I would wake up as early as 5 am to stand in line for tickets to all the basketball games. Even my family back home in Virginia follows Davidson basketball online when they can’t watch on TV or in person.

Most recently, we won the Southern Conference championship against Western Carolina, in a nail-biting game that went to double overtime. In a funny turn of events, I was on a cruise with other avid basketball fans, and we spent four stressful hours watching score and time updates on the ESPN ticker at the bottom of the screen, because the cruise ship wasn’t broadcasting our game live. Tonight, students, friends of the College, and community members alike gathered for our “Selection Party,” where we found out the NCAA bracket.

The 900 Room of the College Union was overflowing with people watching the pep band, cheerleading team, and a pre-show speech by Coach McKillop. Excitingly, we were seeded thirteenth in the Western region to play number four, Louisville. Unfortunately, Thursday’s game will be in Portland, Oregon. While most of the students won’t be making the trip across the country to see the game in person, there are already plans in place for where to cheer on our team.

The environment is particularly reminiscent of our 2008 tournament run. Back then, I had just been admitted to Davidson, and, for the first time, friends and teachers from my high school had Davidson on their radar. I would wear my sweatshirt to class and have friends comment on how great and talented Steph Curry and our basketball team were. It brings back great memories to see the school spirit and excitement on our campus. Now we just have to wait until Thursday. Go ‘Cats!