We’re hours away from winnowing a field of 68 to a very capable 8, and I’m late to the game. Five or ten years ago, I would have been all over this tournament as three different rounds were being played in Chicago, St. Louis and Indy. I would have jumped at that opportunity to drive (easily) to each site for the chance to see the eventual overall winner. Instead, I’ll offer kudos to the conference formerly DBA the Big Ten. Their teams have completely dominated the tournament and a championship would solidify them as the most important conference of the young decade.

Three consecutive College football championships with three different teams followed by a hoops title from a fourth different team would be icing on the cake.