February 11, 2008
Bluegrass Hoops Revival
by Cortney Basham

There is a spirit moving from the misty Appalachians of eastern Kentucky, through the rolling hills of bluegrass, southward to cave country, and blowing west to the Jackson Purchase.  The Kentucky Wildcats have their masses believing that they can get to the NCAA Tournament on the strength of a recent five-game winning streak.  The Louisville Cardinals are rolling in Big East play and are coming off a win over highly respected Georgetown—a legit Final Four contender.  Murray State is 10-2 in their last twelve.  One of those losses was to Eastern Kentucky, who has won 7 of 8 including five straight.  Heck, even Morehead State, an OVC doormat since Charles G. Finney was a pup, has won 8 of 10. 

But, none of those teams boast a nine-game winning streak like the WKU Hilltoppers.  In fact, few teams in the land have won more games consecutively than the Big Red: Memphis (23), Drake (19), Davidson (13), Duke (11), Oral Roberts (10), Purdue (also 9).  That’s the list—and it is a list of teams that will likely be in the NCAA Tournament.  Davidson and ORU will have to win their conference tourneys, but they will be heavy favorites.  That is not quite the case for WKU with rival South Alabama having an equally impressive season in the Sun Belt.  But, the Tops’ last three opponents’ head coaches have anointed the Toppers “best in the league.”  Further, WKU just went into Denton and dispatched North Texas—something South Alabama could not do just a few days earlier.  In fact, that is a feat unmatched by ANY other team when North Texas has been healthy.  They did lose to New Orleans at home when their team was ravaged by the flu.

All that said, there is a veritable big tent, all-night-singin’, hallelujah-shoutin’, Holy Ghost revival happening in First Church of Bluegrass Hoops.  And, WKU is right up front preaching the truth.

The Toppers host Troy on Wednesday night this week, and have a game at MTSU on Saturday.  If they navigate those two successfully, they will await South Alabama’s visit to Diddle on Thursday, February 21, riding an 11-game streak.

Remember, the South Alabama game is Faith and Family Night.  It is also the “White Out” game.  So, remember to WEAR WHITE.

Here is a link to a form that will allow you to secure $5 tickets through your local church.  Please print it and blanket every church in town with this fantastic opportunity to see the biggest home game of the year for a measly five bucks.  The community should show this team the support that they deserve and sell out Diddle Arena for the last three home games.

Link to Faith Night Form for $5 Tickets:  Faith and Family Night