One Hell Of An Ending - Duke National Champions

It was close to being the perfect fairytale ending. In fact it was a matter of an inch or so. The thickness of a basketball rim was all that got in the way of a story that would make a great Hollywood sports film.

The underdog defying critics and beating the 'big boys' on the way to the final. Then in the dying seconds of the Chapionship game, a shuddering blind side screen from star player Matt Howard set up teammate George Hayward just inside half court with space to shoot. We were moments away from the greatest ending in sports history. As he rose up off his left foot and let go with incredible accuracy, the Television angle said it was going in. It had to go in. America held it's breath. A nation hoped. Sadly reality intervined. Glass, rim and out. The dream was over


But here's the thing, there is still a great story here. Not only a story of a team earning respect, as Butler showed that they belogned in these Finals but of a coach that can now be described as 'great.' 11 Regional Championships and now four NCAA Tournament Championships added to the Gold medal he won at the 2008 Olympics has finally given him the 'great' tag that many had been tempted to use but wanted a little bit more convincing. Well now you have it. Coach K has acheived greatness, greatness that turned out to only be a rim away.

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