NCAA - Thoughts on The Ohio State Buckeyes

(Buckeye Star David Lighty Celebrates a Big Ten Championship on Senior Day - March 6, 2011 - Columbus, Ohio)

The 2011 NCAA Tournament has concluded with the UConn Huskies emerging as National Champs. It has been a few weeks since Ohio State was eliminated in the Sweet 16, and the sting of defeat still permeates the consciousness of Buckeye fans.

There is little solace to be gained from analyzing the contest with Kentucky (a great game by the way) because this is what you expect in March, close games & upsets.

The NCAA has this type of unpredictable complex where it does not always work out for even the best teams that seem destined for championships. Take Maya Moore's UConn Huskies for example; this was one of the best woman's teams of all-time. Fans knew they could be challenged, but the thought of them falling in defeat was never in the conversation (yet these things occur in sports, which is we we love it)

The Ohio State Buckeyes will undoubtedly compete for final fours again, but the most unique aspect of this great 2010/2011 squad was that it was led by a special group of (Senior) veterans that embodied what it means to be a Buckeye.

What more can be said about this Ohio State Senior Class? We ask because if you're a Buckeye fan, you have probably already read numerous stories about how much these guys mean to their families, friends, fans, University, and basketball program.

David Lighty, the consummate leader on & off the court, a true winner (in fact the all time winningest Buckeye), one of the most versatile & competitive players to ever put on an Ohio State jersey. Jon Diebler, a true iron-man in every sense of the phrase. A tireless worker who now holds the Big Ten record for three point field goals. Like Lighty, Jon was another ultimate team guy throughout his Ohio State career. Dallas Lauderdale, a self-less, team first player who represented Ohio State with exemplary class on the hardwood and in the community.

We frequently use the word team to describe these players because this is the legacy they left at Ohio State, a group of talented individuals who came together to form a special team..that is what it means to be a Buckeye. It will be an honor to follow these departing Seniors as they enter the next phase of their careers.

- 3.6.2011 - Departing With Distinction - Dispatch (This article contains profiles on each Senior including walk on Eddie Days!)

(Senior Day Videos & more)