The Big East Tournament began yesterday and it will never be the same. With the breakup of the Big East set to begin this June, one of college basketballs greatest treasures will no longer exist.
The Big East tournament so was something so different, so unique that no other conference could replicate it. The only conference tournament that sells out so fast, that general public tickets never go on sale. Maybe it was New York City, the mecca of basketball, and Madison Square Garden hosting the event. MSG, the world’s most famous arena, has seen everything and every team and player is trying to write another chapter in buildings history.
Passion runs deep in the BET. When UConn won the Big East Tournament and the NCAA tournament in the same year, many analysts questioned which was harder to win. Surprisingly the BET was deemed harder. The gauntlet the Huskies went through winning five games in five days was nothing short of a modern miracle. Kemba Walker, from the Bronx, put on a Broadway performance that will be remembered forever. But to think that is one of moments that have occurred during the BET.
Gerry McNamara took Syracuse on four straight wins en route to a title a day after being named the leagues most overrated player. Allan Ray’s eye getting poked out, the six-overtime with Syracuse and UConn, Joe Alexander’s dunk on Stanley Robinson, and Brandin Knight’s half-court near make in the 2002 championship are some of the first memories that come to mind when mentioning the BET.
There is just something about the BET. Experiencing it takes it to a whole new level. Alums come out of Wall Street wearing their school colors over their suits for a noon games is something that will never be replicated. For five days, the Garden is electric 24/7. When you mention the BET to someone who loves it, it sends that tingling sensation down their spine. For this is the final chapter of the storied Big East Tournament. With that watch it, experience it, soak it in this week as it all ends on Saturday Night. Remember it next year when you watch the ACC, Big 12, or even the New Big East tournament, that nothing will ever compare to what the Big East Tournament had.
Photo Credits: CBS Sports
