Quotes of the NCAA tournament
Quotes from the teams
VCU head coach Shaka Smart: “You guys think Jay Bilas watched that game?”
“I want to credit VCU, they played a great game. They more than proved they belong in the NCAA tournament.” – USC head coach Kevin O’Neill after VCU’s dismantling of the Trojans.
“It feels really good because a lot of people doubted us and we were able to come out and prove some people wrong rather than just talking about it we just came out here and played.” – Senior forward Jamie Skeen after VCU’s First Four victory over USC.
“VCU can beat anybody in the country, and I believe that,” Purdue head coach Matt Painter
“I’m looking forward to getting a little bit of sleep,” Smart on how his emotions following their win over Purdue
Quotes from the fans
As VCU men’s basketball moves forward through the NCAA tournament, their fans continue to show their support at home. Numerous local businesses, including VCU’s University Commons and Activities, hosted watch parties for Sunday night’s game against Purdue.
Below are photos and quotes from some of the fans who hit the town on game night.
VCU Chili’s
About 55 attended
“VCU’s defense kicked in the second part of the first half and it’s really made a difference.”
-Jason Payne, sophomore, homeland security
“I’m shocked but shocked in a good way. They have surpassed my expectations in every way imaginable. They’ve stifled the other team with their defense.”
-Benjamin Wells, junior, physical therapy
University Student Commons
About 40 attended
“It’s a really big accomplishment for VCU especially having been doubted by so many other schools and people in general.”
-Anthonette Ward, sophomore, Spanish/mass communication
“With them being such underdogs it gave me a lot of pride. It’s really lifted my spirit being at this university and being able to watch them play.”
-Maani Stewart, senior, political science
Home Team Grill
About 200 attended
“I totally believe in VCU no matter what anybody says. I’m excited we proved the nation wrong.”
-London Ray, undergraduate, fashion merchandising
“When you have guys like Joe Lunadi and Jay Bilas who do nothing but talk about how we don’t belong in the tournament, you take that animosity and turn it into desire and you take that desire and you take it as far as you can go.”
-David Southall, senior, criminal justice/psychology
