Before we look at what factors have
resulted in this latest Cinderella story, let's first examine the
Eagles' brief history.
Florida Gulf Coast University was
founded in 1991. They didn't even have a basketball program
for the first ten years of the school's existence. The Eagles' foray
into hoops started in 2002-03 when they were established as an
independent Division II team. FGCU became a full Division I member
just months before the 2011-12 season. Let's pause for a few moments to
let that sink in...
OK. Now we're there. This team just
finished their second full season of NCAA Tournament eligibility! The
soaring Eagles need to be celebrated for just getting to the
tournament, let alone what they've done to their opponents. What head
coach Andy Enfield and his men have accomplished so far is astonishing and extraordinary, with a sprinkle of stupendous.
Considering where the program was just 5 years ago, he should be in
the running for Coach of the Year. But that's another story for
another time.
So, what about their play? Has their
performance on the court truly warranted a place in the final 16 teams of
the biggest tournament in sports?
Don't think. Just nod.
FGCU's non-conference slate this season
was as good as it gets for a team that plays in the Atlantic Sun.
Three of their first four games were: at Virginia Commonwealth, home
against Miami and at Duke. The fact that they defeated Miami should
have been a warning sign for Georgetown in their Second Round
match-up. The Hoyas and Hurricanes play a similarly physical game,
relying on tough defense and timely shooting to beat their opponents.
Both teams fell hard, and it's no wonder.
While the world looked on, “Dunk City”
made it known they would not slow their game down to match the Hoyas' modus operandi, or anyone else's. Instead, previously unknowns such as Sherwood Brown, Bernard Thompson,
Brett Comer and Chase Fieler flew down the court, lobbing up and
flushing down countless thunderous dunks en route to the victory.
Need more proof? Check out this
"Dunk City" video that is sure to go viral in the
coming days. The level of confidence and belief within their team was
evident when they hit the court on Friday. One or two more upsets is
not out of the question whatsoever.
So now, the Sweet 16, and whether
they advance past Florida will not be determined by luck. Two very
solid teams will take the court, and only one can move on. No matter
the outcome, remember this squad. They may not be pros, but
they'll be legends.
Download SnapCall Sports from the
iTunes App Store and join in the fun for the rest of March Madness.
P.S. Andy Enfield's wife is a former
Victoria's Secret model.
