Detroit-Area Team Snags First NCAA Tourney Berth Since 2011
Sure, we’re used to seeing Michigan State University and, at times, Michigan in the NCAA Tourney, but this year, there’s one more Michigan team representing. It’s a team that you could call very underrated, but they’re finally getting some of the respect and attention they deserve.
Oakland basketball is hot this year, and they’re bringing a lot of national attention to Michigan. The team appeared in the Horizon League championship game on Tuesday (March 12) for only the second time since becoming part of the conference in the 2013-14 season. They made it to the game after beating No. 7 seeded Vikings, 74-71, at Indiana Farmers Coliseum in Indianapolis. Following that win, the No. 1 seeded Golden Grizzlies went up against No. 4 seeded Milwaukee on Tuesday. It was a close game right up until the end, often times tied. But, the Grizzlies pulled it off, 83-76. I watched the game on ESPN, and it was really exciting to see the Grizzlies explode as the time ran out on the clock. I’m happy for these guys.
The Oakland Golden Grizzlies represent Oakland University in Auburn Hills. They play their home games at the Athletics Center O’rena, and they’re coached by Greg Kampe. Kampe is something of a legend there, too, much like Tom Izzo is at Michigan State. He’s the longest-tenured Division I head coach who is still out there coaching.
This year will mark the Golden Grizzlies’ first appearance in the NCAA tourney since 2011. It’s so inspiring to see this team beat the odds to get into the tournament. I’ll have to root for my Michigan State Spartans over the Grizzlies, but it would be quite a Cinderella story to see the Grizzlies go far in March Madness. I love this time of year. It’s a welcomed dose of sports following the end of the football season. Welcome to March Madness.
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