And This Is, One More Time, Why We Watch Sports

Trevor Releford, you magnificent bastard!

With his team on the NCAA bubble, having pissed away a 17 point lead at home, with Georgia ready to stick the dagger in with a wind-the-clock-out-and-fire game winner in their hands..... THIS happened.



Or, as Ricky Bobby would say: "What does that do? Did that just blow your mind? That. Just. Happened..."

A metric ton of great games, great moments, and great intensity in college basketball over the weekend. And we're still a full week away from selection Sunday. I know that I have lamented the (undeniable) decline of the college game, and the college scene in hoops the last few years. But the simple fact remains: these kids play their assess off for the front of the jersey. If only for one year, sure. But if it's just one year for some of them, we'll have to take it.

Releford may, or may not, someday make crazy NBA coin and buy himself a mansion with a grotto and fish tanks full of bull sharks.

What matters, is that this moment for him, is indelible and worth more than whatever the Toronto Raptors might some day pay him.

He won't have to TELL his kids and grand kids about this shot. He'll just say: "Go ahead, think I'm exaggerating?  Google it..."

I loved watching this game ending sequence so much, I nearly broke the rewind and pause button on my DVR. Some things that popped to the front of my mind....

1. When the opponent has the ball, shot clock off, and a chance to win the game, it is THE WORST! It's like an execution, where you have to stand against the wall, and hope the guy with a pistol from long range misses.

2. The turnabout dagger, which this was, is exceptionally rare. Most of the time, you MIGHT get them to miss, then rebound, and call timeout for a last second play. That dynamic is not nearly as awesome as how this game played out.

3. Watch the Alabama bench as Releford is about to launch. Even though the pure statistical prospects of a running half courter are pretty damn low, those guys in warm-ups are crouched and ready - almost as if they had seen the script for this epic finish and know how it turns out. I love the guy at the end of the bench who is pogo-hopping as the ball makes its final descent into Bama hoops lore.

4. When the horn sounds as the game winning shot is about half-way home, it is the FUCKING BEST. The best! And now with the red-light LED's around the backboard, it's just so damn cool when guys hit buzzer beaters.

5. Thank god for whomever invented the mic'd up rim in basketball. Somebody smart, a long time ago, knew that clean audio of where the pumpkin-meets-the-twine would make for an excellent broadcast "sweetener." And in this case, the audio is awesome. The ball rips through the rim with an epic "ssssshhhhhWUNK!" that makes the entire building explode.

6. The announcers made the perfect call: "OHHHHHHH..ooooooohhhhh....." They say in TV you should "lay out" and the "big moments" speak for themselves with pictures and natural sound. But not always. On these kind of plays, the pure orgasmic wonder of the paid professionals wearing the headsets is absolutely pitch perfect.

Let's hope this moment is a harbinger of a great tournament. Hell, it's pretty hard to fuck up the NCAA's, even though the NCAA is trying their darndest. With the sheer weakness of the top teams this year - it's possible that 3 of the #1 seeds will have FIVE losses each, un-heard of! - I think this bracket is the most wide open affair since they went to 64 teams.

Let's get it on. And make sure to start planning your creative get-out-work excuses now.

Title: And This Is, One More Time, Why We Watch Sports: Unveiling the Timeless Allure of Athletic Competition

In a world filled with diverse entertainment options, one constant continues to captivate people across cultures and generations: sports. Whether on the grand stage of international tournaments or in the local community leagues, the allure of athletic competition remains undiminished. From the thrilling victories to the heart-wrenching defeats, there's a profound reason why we watch sports. This article delves into the timeless appeal of athletic contests, exploring the emotional connections, societal significance, and the frequently asked questions that surround our fascination with sports.

The Emotional Journey of Athletic Competition

At its core, sports are a canvas for human emotions, creating a unique tapestry that evokes a spectrum of feelings, both for the athletes and the spectators.

1. Triumph and Victory: The sight of an underdog triumphing against all odds or a record-breaking performance that defies expectations stirs a sense of triumph and elation. These moments remind us of the potential within us to overcome challenges.

2. Heartbreak and Defeat: Equally impactful are the moments of heartbreak and defeat. Witnessing an athlete's vulnerability in the face of loss reminds us of the fragility of human endeavor and instills empathy.

3. Unity and Camaraderie: Sports foster a sense of unity and camaraderie among fans. Whether cheering for a hometown team or rallying behind a national squad, shared experiences create bonds that transcend borders and backgrounds.

4. Role Models and Inspiration: Athletes often serve as role models, embodying qualities like dedication, discipline, and resilience. Their journeys inspire us to set and pursue our own goals, both in sports and in life.

The Societal Significance of Sports

Sports extend beyond entertainment—they have a profound impact on society, influencing culture, economy, and even politics.

1. Uniting Communities: Local sports teams become rallying points for communities, offering a sense of identity and pride. Sporting events bring people together, promoting social interaction and cultural exchange.

2. Economic Impacts: Major sporting events have substantial economic impacts, generating revenue through ticket sales, tourism, and advertising. Host cities see an influx of visitors, which boosts local businesses and economies.

3. Diplomacy and Global Relations: Sports can play a role in diplomacy, as international competitions provide opportunities for nations to interact on neutral ground. Friendly rivalries can foster diplomacy and understanding.

4. Inspiring Youth: Young athletes look up to professionals as they strive to emulate their heroes' achievements. This cycle of inspiration fuels the growth of sports at all levels and contributes to overall youth development.

Frequently Asked Questions about Watching Sports

Q1: Why do people become emotionally invested in sports?

A1: Emotional investment in sports is often driven by the sense of connection and identification with athletes, teams, and the shared experience of victory and defeat.

Q2: Can watching sports have psychological benefits?

A2: Yes, watching sports can provide stress relief, a sense of belonging, and emotional catharsis. It offers a distraction from everyday concerns and can boost one's mood.

Q3: What role do sports analytics play in enhancing the viewing experience?

A3: Sports analytics provide deeper insights into the game, offering fans a more comprehensive understanding of strategies, player performances, and team dynamics.

Q4: Are there negative aspects associated with watching sports?

A4: While watching sports can be enjoyable, excessive consumption can lead to sedentary behavior, addiction, or neglect of other responsibilities. Moderation is key.

Q5: How do sports influence popular culture?

A5: Sports have a significant influence on music, fashion, advertising, and language. Iconic moments and players become ingrained in cultural memory, shaping trends and references.

The allure of athletic competition transcends generations and cultures, reminding us of the universal aspects of the human experience. From the exhilaration of victory to the poignant moments of defeat, sports encapsulate a range of emotions that connect us to athletes and each other. The societal impacts of sports further underscore their significance, from fostering unity to driving economies and promoting diplomacy. As we continue to watch sports, we engage with an enduring narrative that reflects our aspirations, celebrates our achievements, and reminds us of the shared human journey.