Last week, I wrote about enjoying the journey.
About soaking in the season while it lasts and appreciating the growth of a group of seniors on their “one last ride.” About a team that had already accomplished something special before the NCAA Tournament even tipped off. But something changed this weekend. At some point during a magical season, the ride stops feeling like a surprise and becomes destiny.
That’s what Montclair State felt like. The NCAA called it a neutral site. Anyone inside the Panzer Athletic Center knew better. YU fans turned Montclair into Washington Heights. Students. Alumni. Families. Community members. Everywhere you looked, there was blue and white, even outside where fans unfortunately were turned aside due to limited capacity.
When Max Zakheim stepped to the free-throw line with 0.2 seconds left against Bates, the moment felt massive, and the crowd felt like it was holding its breath.
