Hello readers (at this point, numbering my fiancee and myself),

Last night, BC won one of the most exciting, intense, physical games they have played in many years. BC defeated their formidable and highly rated opponent, the UNC Tarheels, by taking over the game from about the 2 minute mark of the first half through about the five minute mark of the second half and then holding on for dear life in the final 30 seconds. UNC swaggered as if they owned the building for most of the first half, with Wes Miller making 3 from exceedingly improbable distances. David Noel and Reyshawn Terry also were putting the pressure on and Tyler Hansborough was clawing to score points amid what often seemed like quadruple team coverage. BC's mental fortitude and desire were evident in how they swept away a 25-19 deficit smoothly and quickly and from there never let UNC move out of their sight. What a game. Even someone without a rooting interest in that game would have no choice but to be riveted by it. But for a BC fan and alum, hoping that my team could climb the mountain, prove their worthiness in the ACC tournament and stun what was basically the home team, this was a defining moment as a sports fan, the kind of win that I will savor and relish because of how impressive it was.

Now, BC moves on to face Duke, in what all scions of BC hoops hope will be an even more gratifying and invigorating win. BC can become ACC tournament champion in their first appearance in this revered, legendary tournament filled with stories of David Thompson, Michael Jordan and Christian Laettner and so many others. BC needs to play as confidently, efficiently and single-mindedly as they did yesterday, undeterred by the seeming road court disadvantage they clearly face. Craig Smith is playing like a first team All American in this tournament, with a near triple double on Friday and a tour de force, commanding 23 points, 15 board performance against UNC. He needs to play superb, physical basketball again today. John Oates and Sean Williams have to help him by working to stymie McRoberts and Williams as they did so well with Hansborough yesterday. This is going to be exciting. In their first meeting, BC had poise early, played erratic and sloppy in the middle of the game and fiercely came back to have a chance in the end. It was a fun yet frustrating game. Today, BC needs to continue to make the sound shot selections they have been making the last two days. The Eagles need to make the open three, find the cutters when Smith gets doubled, take advantage of offensive rebounding opportunities and shoot free throws well, which has been an elusive goal for them this year. And that is just on offense. On defense, BC needs to thwart J.J. Redick and the penetration of Paulus, they need to keep an eye on McRoberts and keep Shelden Williams out of good position. They need to dominate the defensive boards. They need to play well today, play the game they are clearly capable of. Today promises to be fun and enthralling, a day of potential, of brilliant memories and a springboard for NCAA tournament success for the Boston College Eagles. I cannot wait. Let's Go Eagles.