Even the Losers

Pittsburgh, North Carolina, Michigan State and UCLA, four teams I like to go deep in the upcoming NCAA tournament, all lost in their respective conference tournaments. Is this a harbinger of things to come? I doubt it. Pitt has a history of playing well in Big East tournament only to miss out on all the March Madness fun, so maybe their early exit Thursday night actually bodes well for them this year.  UNC's loss to Florida State this afternoon shouldn't kill their chances at a No. 1 seed. MSU's dismantling, on the other hand,  should put to rest the Spartans's hopes of being a top seed. UCLA might also get knocked down a seed or two, but I'm still bullish about their chances to reach the Sweet 16. Maybe even the Elite Eight.

Right now, though, I'm sure these four teams are smarting over their early exits and hoping that they draw a favorable bracket. In recognition of this, here's a little song from Tom Petty to help them make through Sunday night, when the selection committee determines their respective fates.