Gators Take a Big Bite out of Bucky's Butt Beating WI 84-83 in Overtime at MSG

The NCAA sweet 16 turned sour with the last 4 seconds on the buzzer in overtime at MSG.   The WI Badgers dominated most of the 1st half having held an 11 point lead.  But the Gators came clawing back pulling ahead by 1 at the half.  The 2nd half the lead changed several times before the Gators gained on the scoreboard for what felt a sure win for the crocks.  But the WI team garnered steam ending regulation play tied for a 5 minute overtime with momentum moving in the Badger's direction.  The Badgers burrowed for the lead during the first 4 minutes of overtime.  Team leader Nigel Hayes (who dished on NYC - will no doubt depart with no love loss for the big Apple) missed several free throws that would have given the Badgers some safety points.  Still, WI was up by 2 points with 4 seconds on the gameclock with FL bringing the ball in play from beneath the WI bucket.  Fouling was not an option but the usually dominate WI defense gave the Gators an opening for a 3 pt field goal at the buzzer.  A review ruled the shot beat the clock and the Gators snapped a 1 pt victory to move into the elite eight sending the Badgers into hibernation until next year.  The team is going back to Madtown - not happy. The garden was awash in red with WI fans, including Aaron Rogers, shaking their heads & drying their eyes.  And those were not crocodile tears I assure you.  Still, March Madness is collegiate competition at its most exhilarating;  surprises, upsets, victories and good sportsmanship reigned the courts in every division.  Congratulations to all those who made it to the dance.  Sadly, no team from the Big 10 whittled down to the elite 8.