Cinderella story
The Saint Peters Peacocks are what student athletics should be all about
Thoughts for the day
My NCAA bracket (filled out for entertainment purposes only, of course) was busted opening night. I’m sure I wasn’t alone. But I don’t mind. Everyone knows I love a good midmajor or small conference underdog, so how could I not love those kids from Saint Peters?
The 15th-seeded Peacocks knocked off a Kentucky team many oddsmakers had slated for the Final Four. They followed it up on Saturday by beating Murray State and riding their Cinderella story right into the Sweet Sixteen.
There are those who complain the tournament is too big. But big-school fans can’t fathom what it is like when your small conference school goes to the tournament. There is nothing like the feeling I had when my American Eagles won the Patriot League and went dancing. And I’m just a fan.
Imagine it for the kids on the floor, who have been playing all their lives, but were passed over or cast off by elite programs. Most of these kids’ careers will be over when they graduate. Now, they are on the big stage beating Kentucky on national TV. Next up? Purdue.
It will be a windfall for the school. How many people like me were hitting up Google to find out where the heck Saint Peter’s is located? Who they are and what they are known for? I remember when George Washington made its first appearance in the Sweet Sixteen in 1993. For many people — athletes and non-athletes alike — it put the school on the map.
That’s what student athletics should be all about.
The Six
No. 1
Who are these guys? The Athletic with Cinderella has a ‘stache: Meet Doug Edert and Saint Peter’s, the new March Madness darlings.
No. 2
Interesting opinion in The New York Times that discusses how both Republicans and Democrats largely miss the real story about Hispanic voters. But while both parties may think they are winning the battle for their support, While Democrats Debate ‘Latinx’, Latinos Head to the G.O.P., and that could have a big impact on the midterms and control of Congress.
No. 3
Another interesting piece from NYT, The Rise of the Tucker Carlson Politician, examine how campaign ads by two Republican Senate candidates, Blake Master in Arizona and J.D. Vance in Ohio, mirror the language of the Fox personality, with their primaries being a test of his national conservative (NatCon) movement, which is attempting to carry on Trumpism.
No. 4
No doubt you’ve noticed it, too. Some headlights are blinding. And as I get older, and my eyes adjust slower, it can be downright dangerous. Earlier this month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration denied a 2019 petition by GM to declare the issue inconsequential on its 2010-17 GMC Terrains. Tuesday, GM gave in and will recall 740,000 vehicles. Maybe there is hope.
No. 5
If you ever fancied having a chance at Plinko, your chance to “Come on Down” may be here. “The Price is Right” is hitting the road in celebration of its 50th season, making 50 stops coast-to-coast.
No. 6
When we were kids, we were promised flying cars. Now, Suzuki and 'flying car' firm SkyDrive Inc have teamed up to research, development and marketing of electric, vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. This ain’t my old Swift.
Quote of the Day
“James Harden has the beard. Doug has the mustache. The ‘stache is cash.” — Bill Edert, father of Saint Peters Basketball player Doug Edert.
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About
Christopher Six is a passionate advocate of community journalism with more than 30 years in the media, corporate communications and marketing. An award-winning designer, columnist, illustrator, photographer and newsroom leader, he is a respected voice in journalism ethics. A veteran reporter, he has created and taught news writing seminars for community colleges and the Pennsylvania Newspaper Association.
Editor’s Note
Pick Six is published most Mondays-Fridays. Sharing of stories does not equal endorsement, however, personal thoughts and commentary on those stories are 100 percent my own.