My FREE Buzzketball Game!

It seemed to start out like any Wednesday morning does: Wake up, grab a glass of juice, look at TKP to see the latest with Tech sports...and then begin doing homework and/or studying for whatever *put class name here* has to throw at me. This Wednesday however, I didn't quite make it to the whole studying/class work part. I noticed there were quite a few replies to a comment I had made in regard to attending the Hokies NIT game against Princeton, in which I referenced the fact that I wouldn't be able to go because of the horrific condition of my bank account. *WARNING* if you are the kind of person who cries during the sad and/or emotional parts of a movie, get your tissues out, if you are NOT this kind of person, get your tissues out anyway...this is a real tear-jerker. Joe, the editor and founder of this fantastic website, very graciously offered to buy a ticket for me out of his own pocket. When I read his comment, my jaw hit the floor. At first I thought I was reading things wrong...but my eyes were not playing tricks on me, he had actually said he would pay for my ticket.... Wow!! So before I go into the game experience, THANK YOU JOE!!! I really, really appreciate it and hope you know that you made this Hokie fan very, VERY happy!!! It just goes to show how much of a family we are as Hokie Nation (and at TKP), and I hope that one day I have the opportunity to follow in Joe's example and make a fellow Hokie's day. Here's to you Joe:

On to my game experience. The energy felt when first walking into the Cassell was...incredible. I haven't felt that kind of energy in Cassell before a game since the NIT game against Uconn in 2010. As the time for tip approached, the crowd grew both in volume and in numbers. One side note: as Buzz walked out onto the court last night, Hokies big and small gave him a VERY loud and appreciative roar. I truly hope he heard just how loud we got when he entered the game and how much we appreciate love having him here in the Burg. The other thing that struck me is this...Cassell is a SCARY place to play. I mean SCARY. It's loud, it's dark, and it's close. I know it isn't the most up-to-date arena, and that it has its problems...but seriously, I think some of those "problems" give us a HUGE homecourt advantage even before you factor in crowd noise. Just my $0.02. I had an absolute blast last night, and it was a really great game to watch (although I think know my blood pressure went high and my heart went low when the Tigers took the lead late...)! I was hoarse last night, and am still trying to find my voice today. I think last night was a great testament to the passion and excitement that is surrounding this program...I mean, a PACKED Cassell?! How long has it been since we had that?! It's sad knowing that this was the last game in Cassell this season, and I don't think I can wait the long, dreary months until we see our Hokies take the court again. Thankfully there's plenty of football in between now and then! Thank you again Joe, I never could thank you enough!!!