Vincennes University's basketball team this year is involved in something it took the NJCAA way too long to do. For years, V-U has taken a long road to qualify in district and regional competition-- with trips so long it took a road map to figure where they were going. It meant little or no fan support, long bus rides, and in some years (read: 2012)-- disappointing results.
Finally, the NJCAA came to its senses and gave the fans what they wanted-- an Indiana-Illinois regional competition. Eight teams play off for the title, and the winner moves to the national championship. It also brings back old rivalries-- like tonight... V-U plays its arch rival from 20 miles away,-- live and direct from Mount Carmel, Illinois... ladies and gentlemen, the Wabash Valley Community College Warriors. The game will be at Rend Lake-- the venue for the Region 24 tournament. If the Blazers win tonight, who may be waiting? Another team from within an hour's drive-- the Olney Central College Blue Knights.
If you are a dedicated V-U fan... or a casual one like me... this is how tournament basketball should be. Better to have your tournament fate decided by a team 30 minutes away, than one 800 miles away. Thanks, NJCAA-- this was long overdue, but well worth it.
That's my take... I'm Tom Lee.
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