MattStark's Blog

Three days later and like many Memphis Tiger fans, I still can't believe they didn't win that game.

If I need to explain what game I'm talking about-- this blog isn't for you.

I'll be honest, when Kansas started fouling with 2:12 left, I thought it was over. The Tigers had been money all tournament from the free throw line (with the exception of the Miss State game), and I didn't think they would have a meltdown with the National Championship within reach.

I felt the same when the New England Patriots scored the go-ahead TD with 2:42 to go.

Maybe that should have tipped me off about what was to come.

After the game was over, I was pleasantly surprised how the Tigers handled themselves. Anyone who has ever covered a losing locker room, knows it's the most miserable place on Earth. The players don't want to talk, the reporters don't want to be there, and everyone wants it to be over.

The Tigers certainly didn't handle losing well when they fell to Tennessee back in February- freezing out and not speaking with the local or national media, which I felt, and still feel was a mistake.

But on Monday night, they answered any and all questions with their heads held high. I think that while they were obviously crushed about the loss, they realized what a special ride they had been on this year. I really respected how well they handled themselves in defeat, especially one of that magnitude.

True they didn't n the National Championship. but the 2007-2008 Memphis Tigers won't be forgotten by the city of Memphis, and Tiger fans everywhere, anytime soon.

So what will you remember most about this team?