PSU Basketball 2011-12: We've Been Here Before

Open your eyes, Tim. Because
it's about to get real, and you're right
in the center of it all next season.
(Photo: CDT)

*This is the last of three posts that will wrap-up the 2010-2011 basketball season and take a look at the state of the program. The 1st/2nd posts can be found here and here. 

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Penn State does not regularly make the NCAA tournament, as evidenced by their 4 appearances in 46 years. Before this season, the last time this program made it was 10 years ago behind the backs of a group of battered but determined seniors, trying to salvage their careers with an NCAA berth. Everyone uses this fact to be quick to compare this year's team to that 00-01 squad. There are just two similarities between the two teams that I can come up with:

Video: 2001 Big Ten Tournament quarterfinal, Penn State vs #3 Michigan State

Until beating North Carolina to reach the Sweet 16 that year, No. 2 Michigan State was the biggest upset win in Penn State basketball history. For more, I'll let the New York Times recap what happened, then you can watch the video.

Joe Crispin Is Still "La Awesome."

Props to Eric (aka Battle Does It Again) for discovering this hidden YouTube gem of Joe Crispin lighting up opponents these days as a member of the Italian club team Enel Brindisi. As an added touch, the video clip's soundtrack features music you would hear at your typical European disco* except at one-sixteenth the decibel level. If you're really yearning for the total Euro experience though, just press your hands against your head..really hard while watching this clip.

* Or Indigo Club in State College



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