Texas Southern and the NCAA Tournament: A Cinderella Story (with Fewer Glass Slippers)
Remember that time your friend convinced you to skydive even though you're terrified of heights? Yeah, that's basically Texas Southern's journey to the 2023 NCAA Tournament. Buckle up, college basketball fans, because this is a wild ride.
From Bottom to Not Quite the Top, But Still Pretty Darn Good
Let's be honest, Texas Southern wasn't exactly lighting the world on fire during the regular season. They started out 0-7, which is about as exciting as watching paint dry (unless you're into that kind of thing). Injuries plagued them like a persistent houseguest who refuses to wash the dishes. But hey, at least they lost to some pretty good teams, right? Like, consolation prize good, not "we're actually good" good.
The Plot Twist You Didn't See Coming (Except Maybe Their Coach)
Then came the SWAC Tournament. Now, the SWAC is a conference known for its upsets and Cinderella stories, but even the most optimistic Texas Southern fan might have needed a gallon of coffee and a pep talk from a motivational lizard to believe in their chances. Enter Johnny Jones, the Texas Southern head coach, who must have some seriously lucky socks. Because against all odds, the Tigers started clawing their way through the bracket. They took down higher seeds, channeled their inner Rocky Balboa, and emerged victorious, winning the SWAC championship for the third year in a row.
March Madness: Where Dreams (and Maybe Some Nightmares) Come True
So there they were, the Texas Southern Tigers, a team that started the season about as likely to make the NCAA Tournament as your aunt Gertrude winning the limbo competition at a family reunion. They earned their spot in the First Four, which is basically the appetizer round before the main course of March Madness. Let's just say their opponents probably weren't expecting the kind of fight the Tigers brought.
Texas Southern's NCAA Tournament run might not have been a championship story, but it was a testament to perseverance, a little bit of luck, and a whole lot of hustle. They proved that even when the odds are stacked against you, you can still roar (like a tiger, obviously) and make some noise.
So next time your team is struggling, just remember the Texas Southern Tigers. They're a walking, talking reminder that anything is possible in March Madness, even if it involves defying all logic and terrifying your friends with your newfound confidence.
