The biggest lesson from the NCAA men’s basketball tournament is the most obvious: missed shots aren’t fun to watch. Here are five other things we’ve learned from the tournament and college basketball this season:
1. Multiple networks at long last » There was no excuse to miss any buzzer-beater, and that’s a good thing. So is bigger ratings not being beholden to the whims of a producer. Well done, TruTV, TNT and TBS.
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2. NBA opinions can be harsh, but are welcome » The criticism of the college game from NBA pundits might be scathing at times, but that’s because it’s deserved. Charles Barkley would’ve crushed the Duke-Butler final last year, too.
3. Everybody doubted Kemba Walker at least once this season » “Maui was a fluke.” “UConn’s nonconference schedule was a fluke.” “Winning five games in five days isn’t a fluke, but it’s too much to ask.” “The Huskies can’t help but be fatigued in the NCAAs.” We’re all guilty of thinking at least one of these. If you didn’t, you’re lying.
4. Steve Kerr was a breath of fresh air » Clark Kellogg does his best work in the studio. But Kerr talked like an NBA general manager, offering objective insight and analysis of both tactics and personnel. What a concept: listening to the broadcast and actually learning something. By the end of the final, he actually forced Kellogg to get better, too.
5. College basketball isn’t pretty but hasn’t become any less compelling » It remains to be seen if blown-up brackets become the status quo — and if so, whether that will hurt March Madness as a whole. But it was a thrilling ride this year. Somehow, people were still watching even if they didn’t have any stake left in the office pool.
