It seemed like a pointless debate, like a child arguing to stay up an extra 10 minutes. The outcome already was decided.
Cincinnati had just broken a tie on a 3-pointer with 0.8 seconds left in the third overtime of Friday’s game against UConn, causing a desperate Jalen Adams to spend the next few seconds arguing with Daniel Hamilton over who would inbound the ball.
Adams, a freshman, won out and received a pass from Hamilton, turned and fired a 60-foot prayer to save the Huskies’ NCAA Tournament hopes. It was a shot — and eventually a cover — for the ages.
Now, I don’t believe in fate. I don’t believe in destiny or signs or omens. But maybe you do.
These are the facts of the case and they are undisputed:
This column kicked off a little over five years ago with a UConn win, followed by Kemba Walker carrying it to its best season ever. Three years later, former teammate Shabazz Napier’s championship run helped produce the column’s second best run.
So, maybe this is a sign. Maybe this is an omen. Or maybe it’s just one lucky shot.
Let’s roll with history and find out.
UConn (-3¹/₂) over Temple: If you think the Huskies will be worn out from four overtimes, just know that Syracuse followed its 2009 six-overtime win with an overtime win the next day.
Purdue (-6¹/₂) over Michigan: The Wolverines have strengthened their NCAA Tournament case with two straight wins, leading Michigan alum Ken Davidoff to ask me to pick against his school for the third straight day. We’re here to make people happy.
LSU (+7) over Texas A&M: The Tigers need a win to even earn at-large consideration, but in all likelihood, LSU will need to win the SEC championship. At the very least, a well-rested Ben Simmons will make it interesting.
Dayton (-1) over St. Joseph’s: The Hawks won the lone meeting in the regular season, but I’ll take the coach (Archie Miller) who probably will win a national championship one day.
2016 record: 4-4-1
2011-15 record: 106-68-5
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