So the Bradley Braves (20-10), my alma matter, proved the value and talent level of the MVC this year. The Braves are a legit team and should be taken seriously. No, they are not going deep into the show, but they are a good team and should not be disrespected!I think the committee did a great job of selecting the teams that should be in March Madness. Though Jim Nantz (aka Nancy) and Billy Packer (aka Fudgie Packer) and their boys at CBS were upset with the number of Missouri Valley teams in the big dance. Fudge Packer was pissed that the committee included four teams from the MVC (Missouri Valley Conference) and two teams from the Colonial Athletic Association, instead of taking more teams from the other conferences.
From the Washington Post - Monday, March 13, 2006
During the interview, Packer said he disagreed with the committee's decision to give at-large invitations to Wichita State, Bradley, Missouri State, Northern Iowa and George Mason. He cited statistics that indicated teams from the MVC and CAA had won only one game during the last three NCAA tournaments, while teams from the ACC had won 25 games.
Well Nancy, it looks like four of the five teams you said were not any good and should not be in the dance, won their games.
Wichita St beat Seton Hall 86-66
Bradley beat Kansas 77-73
George Mason beat Michigan St. 75-65
Missouri State beat Stanford 76-67
These look like pretty legit teams to beat. What’s up Nancy? Maybe you are a little jaded tonight because your teams did not cover?
I am pumped to see my Braves show up against one of the hottest teams in the Midwest, beating Kansas 77 to 73! Bradley is on fire coming into the Missouri Valley Conference tournament as the hottest, most dangerous team on the league circuit Now they are moving on in the big show.
