2013-14 – An Appreciation

As a longtime State fan, my life is filled with angst and regret. It’s ok, I know the drill by now. Watch Louis CK (especially the “Louie” FX series) if you want to see a perfect example of applying NC State principles to everyday life.

So…before a likely heartbreaking Saturday afternoon, I think it’s important to stop and smell the flowers for once. Because I really like watching and following this basketball team. Yeah, we lose games we shouldn’t, and freeze up from time to time. But damn it, I really LIKE these guys. They have great personalities, and it’s been a banner year for memes. The Wee Baby Seamus, Black Scott Wood, Hipster Cat, King Hippo, Frenchie Le Nard, the Jolly Green Giant. Don’t forget about the meme-less but still enjoyable Des and KW. And of course…Buckets. Watching a true all-time great blossom in front of our eyes. Seeing hard work (how many of you could have transformed your body that way as an addle-minded and oft-drunk college freshman?) pay off in spades. Seeing how his teammates love him, and how he smiles self-consciously when they mob him.

If our fate is the NIT, then I will watch and not complain. Not because “I don’t gauge success based on this tournament or that tournament” – but I just don’t want the ride to end. They’ve given their all, and brought a Prague Spring of joy into our sullen wolven existence. And I’m very grateful.

Now, I’m not averse to seeing us in front at the final whistle today, and f-ck it, tomorrow too. Call me greedy. And maybe even with Hipster Cat and WBS hugging it out and learning they can get along and play together, much like Fire and Ice learned to despite their initial friction. Hey, they played together and did so unselfishly yesterday, right? Moar, pleaz!