Stomp to the Heart

None of their current players have ever been alive in a year in which Arizona was NOT a participant in the NCAA Tournament.

Of course, all that could change in a most unpleasant way for their roster if things don't turn around in a hurry. The Maniac thinks they just might.

I am sure you have all seen the Chase Budinger face-stomp recipient "highlight" by now. It has been played roughly four hundred thousand times on ESPN. What has been less discussed is the furious rally Arizona put together to improbably force overtime, then allow just two points in the OT defeating a pretty good Houston team.



Tonight the Wildcats (12-8, 2-5) host Pac-10 leader Washington in what amount to a last stand for Arizona. Drop this, and it is most likely curtains on the Wildcats season. But win, and things get interesting. After tonight their next three games are: hosting Washington State, then traveling to both Oregon schools. All three are very winnable games. That would leave Arizona at 16-8 and 6-5 in conference and RIGHT in the at-large bid mix.

Of course, it all starts with a win tonight. Can they play with the passion and fury they mustered when their star was stomped on? Can they harness that same desperation for a moment when it is truly warranted?

I like the 'Cats and their two NBA-first rounders salvaging a disappointing season with an upset win over the Huskies tonight.

MANIACS PICK: Arizona 74 - Washington 67

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