The freshman from Shellman, Ga., bypassed the Florida celebration to express his sincere admiration to Jordan and the Butler team with grace and compassion. It was Butler coach Barry Collier who disclosed this information, fighting back tears in the postgame press conference. Personally, I could have cared less about the game going on, but it was impossible for anyone not to be pulling for Butler after watching them battle the Gators. Butler deserved to win the game because they played harder, fought more and outplayed Florida, but they didn't win. It just didn't feel right when Miller's shot went in, but seeing the compassion of Harvey finally made me realize the underlying themes of the NCAA tournament.
Basketball is much more than just a game, especially for the players and coaches.
Watch at the ends of the games when the players all hold hands on the bench, holding onto the bonds forged through a long season of highs and lows. Life isn't fair, and neither is basketball. Many times, the teams that should win don't, even if they worked harder and their redemption is far more deserved. The tournament provides a window into the aspects of human nature that encompass the importance of teamwork and compassion, while illustrating the human desire for success and victory. Before I came to Winston-Salem, I had watched every single NCAA Tournament since seventh grade, but the television hides many aspects.