Anybody's ballgame now
Before coming to the Dee Events Center today I watched a little documentary on HBO about the 1980 U.S. A. Miracle on Ice team that defeated Russia to win the gold medal in hockey. My favorite sports inspirational story of all time.
So far, in two days of prep boys playoff basketball I’ve seen a load of inspirational play, even though there’s really only been one upset in my book – Clearfield’s win over Pleasant Grove, and it wasn’t really a monumental upset. There have been several close calls and several close games, and it’s all been a joy to watch. Honestly, for me and most basketball fans, this is the top week of the year for high school sports in Utah.
So what will end up being the top inspirational story from this year’s tournament? Well, if any team beats Lone Peak, that would certainly be it. And that would certainly be monumental. In fact, an enourmous upset considering the way the Knights are playing basketball right now. In Utah’s sports world, it would be comparable to that 1980 U. S. hockey gold medal win.
Now that we’re down to the final eight in each the 4A and 5A tournaments we have many solid teams still playing, and anything can happen. I do expect Lone Peak to win the 5A title, but that doesn’t mean it will happen or that at least there won’t be a challenge or two remaining for the Knights. I’m sure there are plenty of inspiring moments left. Maybe Clearfield has another win, two or three in the hopper. Maybe Alta will deny Davis that long anticipated semifinal matchup with Lone Peak.
I don’t have a clear-cut pick to win the 4A crown and think we’ve got nothing but hotly contested games ahead. In every single one there’s sure to be many inspirational moments remaining for many players, coaches, fans and parents. I’m just glad that I get a front row seat to witness them all first hand.
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Since you can’t be here, you can either follow our online updates or listen to them on utahpreps.net.
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One other note, before today’s opening game there was a moment of silence at the Dee Events Center for Alyssa Marie Lopez, the West High cheerleader killed Tuesday on her way home from the Panthers’ game. Fans were also reminded to drive home safely.