Thursday, March 24, 2011

2011 NCAA Tournament: An inside view

The entrance ramp to the floor and 'the show' at Time Warner Cable Arena.
P. Koutourmpis
It started on a Friday at Noon and finished on Sunday at 6 pm. The 2011 Men's Basketball NCAA Tournament had come to Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, NC featuring some of the country's best collegiate basketball teams including the defending 2010 champion Duke Blue Devils and the 2009 champion North Carolina Tar Heels. Local fans had the opportunity to support their team while they sought to advance to the Sweet 16 by weekend's end while others traveled from Michigan, New York, Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia and across the country from Washington state to do the same.

As most only get the opportunity to experience such an event from the stands watching these talented teams battle it out for a chance to advance closer to winning a championship title, getting a view from the inside can provide an appreciation for the simplicity and complexity of the event that creates March Madness.

Even the media and players can check out a tournament bracket under the stands.
P. Koutroumpis
The Tar Heels prepare to take on the Washington Huskies.
P. Koutroumpis
Press Row view as Michigan and Tennessee plays on Friday. Not a bad view.
P. Koutroumpis
Tennessee coach Bruce Pearl congratulates Michigan players. He got fired days later.
P. Koutroumpis
North Carolina coach Roy Williams shaking hands with LIU players.
P. Koutroumpis
Defending champion Duke Blue Devils warm-up.
P. Koutroumpis
Michigan coach John Beilein drawing up the play for the Wolverines.
P. Koutroumpis

Post-game press conference with Mike Krzyzewski, Nolan Smith, and Ryan Kelly.
P. Koutroumpis
Mike Krzyzewski leaving the floor with win #900.
P. Koutroumpis

Latest Raleigh Sports Examiner news:

2011 NCAA Tournament: Blue Devils and Tar Heels fans have reason to cheer

As the #1 Duke Blue Devils (31-4) and the #2 UNC Tar Heels (27-7) took to the floor for their respective second-round games in the 2011 NCAA Championship Tournament at the Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte...