Category: Chicago Cubs (Page 11 of 26)

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Old Sport Shorts: That’s How The Ball Bounces #950

May 23, 2019 / mikeljohnston1 / 0 Comments

I happened to be watching the HBO series Deadwood, when I turned over to the BIG 10 baseball tournament from Omaha’s T.D. Ameritrade Stadium. It reminded me of last year’s trip to the College World Series where I watched the Oregon State Beavers outlast the Arkansas Razorbacks for the NCAA National Championship. The winner of the BIG 10 double-elimination tournament is an automatic qualifier for the NCAA tournament and provides a gateway to eventually go to Omaha this year. I.U. won the outright regular season BIG 10 title and finished 24th in the nation, so elimination in this tournament does not necessarily mean their overall chances are over, but will definitely affect their seeding and perhaps home field advantage.

Perhaps my recent viewing of Deadwood was a premonition of the lack of hitting the team would experience. It’s been “dead wood” in Omaha so far, or should I say aluminum, considering the “Silence of the Bats.” The ball is not bouncing out of the park, as has been the case all year. Team I.U. leads the NCAA Division 1 schools with 90 home runs this year. They lost game one against 8th seed Iowa 4-2 and are in danger of elimination as I watch this afternoon in the loser’s bracket against #4 seed Minnesota. So far, they are “0 for Omaha” in home runs, with only 7 hits yesterday and 3 today, coupled with 5 overall errors. There are still two at-bats for the Hoosiers yet to go, but the Golden Gophers are threatening in the top of the 8th. Let’s see if the ball bounces differently from this point on?

As I switched away from the BIG 10 action (or lack of) in Omaha yesterday, I was hoping for better results from the Cubs and the White Sox last evening. In baseball, after a loss, you don’t have to wait long for another opportunity. I have multiple favorites on both the college and Major League levels, so turning to another channel can often change my luck. The Cubs assured themselves of at least a series tie with the Phillies after an Albert Almora Jr. grand slam. Because of the way the ball bounces in baseball, I do not expect a “W” in every game, but winning or tying each respective series is the key to success over the long season.

The Cubs have been hot in May (14-6) after a slow start this year. The Phillies are also on top of their division, so it’s a formidable match-up at Wrigley Field, where the Cubs have already scored three in the bottom of the 7th to get within striking distance. On another channel, Indiana did not score in the 8th, but staved off another big inning by the Gophers, holding runners off second and third with nobody out. Unfortunately, the top of the 9th was another multi-run disaster, as Minnesota’s 9 overall runs are the most that this I.U. team has given up to any BIG 10 opponent this year. Flipping back to the Cubs, they are still down 8-6 to Philadelphia after the 7th inning.

As I wait out the completion of these two games, I also need to salute my White Sox who beat THE hottest team in baseball, the Houston Astros last night, after riding a 9-1 record in the last 10 games. The Sox, 5-5 in that same stretch, have struggled this year, battling to stay in the middle of the American League Central. The Astros had won the first game at Minute Maid Park, and it would take a minor miracle and some lucky bounces to somehow stop their momentum. In fact, it took both a Triple Play, a Grand Slam, and two Eloy Jiminez homers to eventually stun them 9-4. The series finale is tonight.

The ball continues to be bouncing unfavorably today as Indiana fails to score in the 9th and is eliminated from the BIG 10 tournament. Now, back to Deadwood. The Phillies scored again in the 8th and have a three-run lead that the Cubs will have one last chance to overcome. As a result, I may need to rely on the slim chances of the White Sox to brighten my mood, or maybe tonight’s Oregon State game against USC? Let’s see how the ball bounces?

Old Sport Shorts: Blazers Logo #944

May 18, 2019 / mikeljohnston1 / 0 Comments

Last I reported the Cubs were winning in Maui and continued an impressive streak of series victories over their opponents. The red-hot Cubbies had won 4 straight games going into May, and while I watched in Maui were 6-1 including a sweep of the Cardinals. This is why it’s always been “a magical place where the Cubs win all the time.” By the time I got back to the mainland, they were ready to face the division leading Brewers. A 7-0 thumping made me wish I was back in the islands, but a gutsy 15-inning walk-off victory and a win in the series finale put the Cubs in the National League Central drivers seat for the first time this season, as the Cardinals continued to fade. It seemed like the last-place Reds would be easy picking, especially after winning the opener in Cincinnati. However, after the Reds prevailed in the next two battles, it turned out to be the first series loss in over a month. So far in May, the Cubs have gone 11-4, including a 14-6 drubbing of the Nats and ace starting pitcher Max Scherzer. Kris Bryant homered 3 times to lead the Cubs assault.

The Portland Trailblazers also had a magical touch during our Maui getaway with the four overtime victory over the Nuggets. They went on to claim that series and a consolation prize of facing the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference Finals, So far, the Warriors have lived up to their goal of claiming a three-peat, especially after the 17-point comeback in Game 2. The Blazers are hoping that the home court puts them back into contention. We have plans to go to game 4 at the Moda Center.

We’ve lived in Portland now for five years, so I guess that gives us the right to be fans of the team. I grew up a Blazer fan, although it was the Elkhart Blue Blazers, my hometown high school team. The Indiana Pacers were my NBA team of choice, while Portland was just too far away to even follow. College basketball was by far my preference, although my business included selling advertising for Pacers games on radio. I got to know some of the players, including Reggie Miller, and entertained clients at games. My wife’s company now has Trailblazer tickets, so we’ve gone to several games this year. I’ve followed them very closely this year, especially in the Playoffs. The Damian Lillard bobble-head on my office shelf is nodding with approval. Game 3 is tonight but we’ll be at the home of one of my wife’s former client, so I’m not sure if the game will be on or not.

I honestly did not realize the significance of the Trailblazers logo until just this morning. I saw it displayed on a car sticker and tried to figure out the meaning of its unique pinwheel-like design. At first, I thought the lines were trails leading to a center point perhaps reflecting on the Lewis & Clark Expedition. After some research, I discovered that “the five lines on either side of the graphic represent five offensive players and five defensive players coming together to compete in the game of basketball.” Honestly, they might need ten players to effectively compete against the Golden State five for any chance to move on to the first NBA title since 1977.

Retirement is not without Hassles: No Days Off #933

May 7, 2019 / mikeljohnston1 / 0 Comments

When I ran on the Maui beachfront path this morning, I spotted a woman in a “No Days Off” t-shirt. My first thought was she hardly had the physique to boast any such discipline, but then I realized it was probably a free giveaway from Under Armor. In reality, unfortunately she was built more like Coach Bill Belicheck who is credited for the saying. It was a “cringe-inducing, vaguely anti-labor chant at the Patriots’ victory parade, attended by over one million people who, presumably, had the day off.

I can certainly brag that I’ve now run 3,780 consecutive days without a day off, but unlike the New England Patriots I have nothing to show for it. I am stuck at #202 on the active U.S. streak list as currently listed on the website runeveryday.com. It does automatically updates my days, so I no longer have to keep track. I also earned a certificate after my first year and the right to buy a USRSA t-shirt. Other than this, I can’t really say that “no days off” have “paid off,” since you can’t really measure the health benefits. Also, I never seem to move up on this list of devoted streakers who in some cases never report that they’ve missed a run.

I can’t get internet access to my blog at this luxurious Fairmont Kea Lani Hotel, despite spending an hour with the “Help” desk. I wouldn’t access it as helpful since I could not hear or understand the technician and the problem was never resolved. However, as a side note, they did have big fluffy towels and high thread count bed sheets. We’ve stayed on this lush strip of Wailea beach many times, so there’s little new to write about. From a sports standpoint, the Cubs swept the Cardinals and then blew their 8-game winning streak against the Marlins. It just figures that they would have a let-down against the worst team in the majors. To make matters worse, the Nuggets tied the series against the Trailblazers and regained home court advantage. All that “Maui Magic” has suddenly turned tragic.

I took a sun break to catch up on Game of Thrones, so I’m ready for the final episode next week. It will feel good to get those characters out of my mind, regardless of how it turns out. No more battles, bastards, betrayals, and beheading. I will undoubtedly have to take the time while we’re in New York City next week to see the much anticipated conclusion. After all, in retirement, I’ll have the day off!

Old Sport Shorts: More Maui Magic #932

May 4, 2019 / mikeljohnston1 / 0 Comments

I continue to refer to a post card that I sent my dad, a lifelong Cubs fan, from Hawaii over 15 years ago. “It’s a magical place where the Colts and Cubs win all the time.” In 2003, the Colts were down 21-0 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at halftime and 28-7 at the end of the 3rd Quarter. This particular Monday Night Football game was on the big screen in an Island bar sometime in the middle of the afternoon. I remember walking out in disgust but seeing the final score later that day as 38-35 Colts in overtime. I couldn’t believe it! The Colts scored 3 touchdowns in the final four minutes and Mike Vanderjagt hit a game-winning field goal in the extra period for the victory. That’s when I first began to believe in “Maui Magic!”

That same year my wife bought me a Chicago Cubs Hawaiian shirt. After the miraculous Colts comeback victory the night before, I was fashionably ready for the Cubs playoff series against the Florida Marlins. It looked like “Maui Magic” would continue as the Cubs jumped out to a 4-run first inning lead, but in extra-innings they lost 9-8. Fortuitously, I decided to give the gift shirt one more chance and they won three straight by scores of 12-3, 5-4 and 8-3. By that point the shirt and I were inseparable and that’s when I wrote the postcard home. The Cubs needed just one more victory to finally make it to the elusive World Series. Unfortunately, it was time to return home to Indianapolis.

On our Sunday flight back to the mainland, Carlos Zambrano had pitched a scoreless four innings, but in the bottom of the 5th “Maui Magic” turned Tragic! While watching in the Los Angeles airport bar during our layover, the Marlins took a 2-run lead and avoided elimination by a final score of 4-0. Nonetheless, the shirt and I were still confident that the Cubs could certainly win at least one of the final two games, but we would have to do it from the living room couch. I still had a Maui tan but it wasn’t enough, as a 3-0 lead in the 8th started to crumble when Cubs fan Steve Bartman made a bad name for himself. To make an all too familiar nightmare story short, the Cubs ultimately lost the series and the shirt was promptly exiled to the back of my clothes closet.

Now, 15 years later, “Maui Magic” has returned. The Portland Trailblazers have won two consecutive NBA Playoff victories, including a gutsy record four overtime victory last night over the Nuggets. However, I will have to once again leave the island before they can ultimately wrap-up the series. We may even see Game 6 when we’re back in Portland. Unfortunately, I’ve already learned that you can’t take “Maui Magic” home with you. In addition, the Cubs have claimed a series victory over the Cardinals, regardless of tomorrow’s outcome. A grand slam home run by Cubs catcher Taylor Davis, a career first, tied the game after Yu Darvish fell behind 5-1. I knew it would take even More Maui Magic to offset Darvish’s characteristic slow starts. Yu continues to be a disappointing investment, but Javier Baez continued to save the day with his 10th HR of the season. This was after the St. Louis infield muffed his twisting foul pop-up, gifting a game winning second opportunity.

You can’t put “Maui Magic” in a bottle and take it with you. You just have to enjoy it while you’re here. Sadly, it doesn’t seem to work for the White Sox, although they did at least win one game against the Red Sox while we were here. Also, Indiana baseball has lost their series against Illinois, while Oregon State stumbled against Oklahoma State. It continues to be an effective tonic for the Cubs, as the postcard originally proclaimed. Maybe we can come back again to help the Colts!

Retirement is not without Hassles: Hawaiian Time #928

May 2, 2019 / mikeljohnston1 / 0 Comments

I would have to say that the Hawaiian Islands have been poetically inspiring these past few days. There was plenty of time on the five-hour plane ride to write. We were also up early this morning with the three-hour time difference from Portland. Dinner last night was at 7:30 but really 10:30 for us. Most importantly sports scores have gone my way with the Cubs, White Sox, and Trailblazers all recording victories. As I wrote to my dad years ago, “Hawaii is a magical place where {insert favorite teams} always win.” (See Post #49). I hope this continues for the next 7 days that we are on Maui.

It’s a bit cloudy today, so burning these pail shoulders shouldn’t be a problem. I’ve started reading Into the Wild, a book by Jon Krakauer. I actually stole it from our anniversary hotel room in tiny McMinnville, Oregon last week. The Big Apple, New York City is next week. Both cities are mentioned in the silly poem that follows. Yesterday’s poem (See Post #927) was a bit personal and heavy, so I felt that that today’s effort should be lighter. My wife and I were walking along the beach path this morning and we saw a partially clothed statue of Buddha, reminiscent of our recent trip to Thailand. (See Post #884). She couldn’t help but laugh about “Buddha Butt.” I know it’s sacrilegious and disrespectful but that’s what sick humor is often all about:

Buddha Butt

Thailand islands,
Maui sun.
The Big Apple,
Among all we’ve done.

McMinnville magic,
Wrigley vines.
Phoenix to Tucson,
Temples and shrines.

O’ Canada yet,
San Francisco next.
Each new adventure,
A bucket quest.

It’s been a good year,
Of traveling around.
And next fall,
We’re Egypt bound.

We’ve been to the top,
And even underground.
We’ve searched the world,
And here’s what we’ve found:

From naked David,
To tomb of Tut.
Nothing’s sexier,
Than Buddha Butt.

Retirement is not without Hassles: Week in Review #922

April 27, 2019 / mikeljohnston1 / 0 Comments

I spent some time this past week cleaning out and finishing up some of the poetry starts on my Evernote app. Whenever I get an idea, I store it on my phone and work on it from time to time. There are still hundreds of these snippets on file, and while I wait at the doctors office or have some down time I use them for inspiration. I added three new poems to the blog this week, but have written little about my other activities. I decided this morning to catch you up on my retirement life. Whoever you are?

My wife and I are headed to Hawaii next week, only to return for a day before another trip to New York City. As I result, we’ve packed a lot of errands and activities into this week’s social calendar. Naturally, I had time to watch all the updates available for my favorite television series, including Game of Thrones, The Curse of Oak Island, Billions, Schitt’s Creek, and Fosse and Verdon. It will be several weeks before I get back to them again, since I’ll have more constructive things to do. I also went to the chiropractor, got a new prescription for my glasses, cooked dinner, called my sister, talked with my son, enjoyed C’est Si Bon on date night with my wife, finished our wills, took a financial seminar, did my daily runs, and went skiing. This weekend my wife’s youngest daughter is visiting her sister here in Portland, and they will all go wedding dress shopping. Both daughters are getting married this year. Right now, I’m waiting for my wife to get out of bed so we can take the dogs on their highly anticipated Schnauzerthon. They are restless!

Along with some lighter bedtime reading, I am slowly making my way through, The Girls Who Went Away, the disturbing stories of young expectant women who were forced to give their babies away for adoption. It’s a very emotional book, especially for an adopted child like myself. I will write more about it under the “Diary of An Adoptee” category on this blog. A blood relative suggested that I read it, and I’ve found it to be very eye-opening. I may never know the true story of what my birth mother went through, but I’m sure it’s even worse than what I’ve imagined. There are some heart warming moments when mother and child are finally reunited later in life. Honestly, this is probably not going to happen for me.

On the lighter side, I continue to refer to the 1,000 Places to See Before You Die calendar on my desk. Easter Island; Jerusalem; Jiagsu, China; Northern Ireland; Lhasa’s Potala Palace; Mount Yoshino, Japan; and Seville, Spain are all yet to be personally explored. Only Tuscany and Greece were already crossed off my list. The bottom line is that I’ve really only seen about 20% of the world and will realistically only only visit about 35% in my lifetime. The calendar continues to reference places that I’ve never even thought of visiting.

Sports have been a big part of the week, as the Trailblazers move on to the second round of the Playoffs. Their buzzer-beating victory over the Thunder was one of the most exciting I’ve watched. Also, the Cubs have been playing better baseball, winning three game series against both the Diamondbacks and Dodgers. The White Sox continue to flounder near the bottom of their division. Indiana University baseball moved to the top of the BIG conference and into the National Top 25 polls, but then lost their opener against Minnesota. #2 ranked Oregon State was surprised by Nevada. It was also the week of the NFL draft, with little interest for me. In addition, the Portland Timbers were off to a rocky start before defeating both Columbus and Toronto on the road.

Last but not least, I did finally get to the ski slopes this season. It was a beautiful day on the mountain but the snow was a bit sticky. There were also some icy spots in the shaded ares, and my day started on my butt. The fall didn’t hurt, but I badly scratched my exposed back sliding backwards down the hill. With the spring-like weather, I did not have on the traditional layers of clothing that would have normally protected my skin. The tumble, followed soon after by another slip, also destroyed my confidence, as I struggled to regain any form. It was difficult to turn in the slushy areas and this took a toll on my legs as the day went on. I have to admit that at my age I did consider hanging up my skis, but there were also some moments that will probably get me back on them again next year. My goal is to ski into my seventies, but balance is getting to be more and more of an issue.

I’m ready to leave my comfortable life as a homebody and hit the road. We’re in an area of Maui that we’re very familiar with, so it should be relaxing before the Oregon Auto Dealers Convention begins. I’ll have to attend some dinners, receptions, and seminars reminiscent of my working days, She also has television business in New York the following week, so we’ll go to some Broadway Shows and I have tickets to a Yankees game with a friend’s son. Retirement life is busy…and good, despite a few scrapes.

Old Sport Shorts: Rip City #918

April 24, 2019 / mikeljohnston1 / 0 Comments

Last night, Rip City had became R.I.P for the OKC Thunder in one of the greatest finishes I’ve seen. In fact, I had ruled out the Trailblazers victory chances with them down by 15 with 7:12 to go. Honestly, I was at the other extreme with a comfortable 9-point lead at 3:29 in the 3rd quarter and joined my wife in the other room for another episode of Schitt’s Creek. Damian Lillard was on fire and his bobble-head on my office shelf was nodding in agreement. I felt even better because the Cubs had easily defeated the Dodgers 7-2 on another channel behind the crafty pitching of Jose Quintana. By the time I rejoined the Blazer game, Russell Westbrook had given the Thunder a 4-point advantage as the end of quarter was near. It was a tough, physical game with Enes Kanter in pain and holding one arm at his side. “Just what we needed – another injury,” was my sour thought as the Trailblazers hoped to advance in the NBA Playoffs.

I had finally gotten to a game this year and saw an amazing Rip City 28-point comeback over the Sacramento Kings, behind seven threes and 37-points from rookie Anfernee Simons. Lillard did not play nor did his side-kick C.J. McCollum, I did however leave the Moda Center with a new Trailblazers hat and the bobble-head. It was a sign of things to come. The victory earned them a #3 seed, but would require both snapping a 10-game post-season losing streak and winning on the road to get to this chance to finish off the Thunder. I had forgotten that they were formerly the Supersonics, a long time rival neighbor of the Blazers and a bitter loss for the city of Seattle. In fact, the future of the Blazer franchise is in doubt after the death of owner Paul Allen. It was even more incentive to advance in his honor.

With everything on the line, the score tied, the clock running down, and Paul George in his face, Damian Lillard drilled a 37-foot dagger at the buzzer and waved goodbye to the Thunder. It’s a shot that’s becoming a Lillard trademark, allowed him to hit the 50-point mark for the game, and certainly got me off the couch to celebrate. With the Indiana Pacers already swept out of the Playoffs, I’m fully behind the Trailblazers as my wife and I head to Hawaii. I’ve had some memorable sports moments in Maui where I once wrote a postcard to my dad stating, “it’s a magical place where the Colts and Cubs always win!” I hope to add the Trailblazers. (See Post #49)

Retirement is not without Hassles: Ashes and Ivy #908

April 14, 2019 / mikeljohnston1 / 0 Comments

With my upcoming 50th high school class reunion, I will morn the loss of close classmates Grant and Dennis. My good friend Grant passed away decades ago, but just four years ago I had dinner with Dennis and his wife Sue at Michael’s in my hometown of Elkhart, Indiana. Two months later he died unexpectedly. On July 5, 2016, I took Sue to a Cubs game at Wrigley Field and she surprised me with a small metal film container of Dennis’ ashes. Together, we spread them down the first base line along the brick right field wall. I wrote this poem to honor this occasion while watching the Cub’s game from the stands yesterday. Maybe someday I’ll join him on the field?

“Ashes to ashes,
Dust to Dust.”
To rejoin the Earth,
is final must.

A special spot,
Where memories lie.
Set them free,
When I die.

Beautiful white flakes,
They fall like snow.
And come to rest,
In a place I know.

Where Ernie Banks,
Played the game.
And earned his place,
In the Hall of Fame.

Where home runs fly,
Over ivy covered walls.
And destiny is forged,
By bats, gloves, & balls.

Bricks and Blue,
Is what I choose.
An eternal nap,
Win or lose.

It’s my last wish,
To take the mound.
And be a part,
Of sacred ground.

Grave reminders,
Are not for me.
Make me part,
Of that grassy sea.

When my fate
Is finally sealed.
Just spread my ashes,
On Wrigley Field.

I also ran across a similar request from a Steve Goodman called, “A Dying Cub’s Fan’s Last Request:”

Build a big fire on home plate out of your Louisville Sluggers baseball bats, And toss my coffin in. Let my ashes blow in a beautiful snow, From the prevailing 30 mile an hour southwest wind. When my last remains go flying over the left-field wall, We’ll bid the bleacher bums adieu, And I will come to my final resting place, out on Waveland Avenue.

Steve, I hope you meet Dennis!

Retirement is not without Hassles: Sweet Home Chicago #906

April 12, 2019 / mikeljohnston1 / 0 Comments

There’s only one thing better than “Home Sweet Home,” and that’s “Sweet Home Chicago.” I’m writing from the Hotel Chicago Downtown (a Marriott property, of course) right next to the House of Blues. Tonight it’s the band Citizen Cope, a name I don’t recognize, typical of most on this month’s calendar. The only familiar one is Julia Michaels, who we saw open for Pink at the Moda Center earlier this week. I remember seeing the Allman Brothers many years ago at this HOB venue on New Year’s Eve. I also went to a concert back in the days when I was involved with PROMAX and their annual convention. In the meantime, I’ve had lunch there on a couple of occasions and have been to locations in New Orleans, Las Vegas, and Orlando. When it comes to the blues in Chicago, I think of the House of Blues and Buddy Guy’s. Unfortunately, I never saw the actual Blues Brothers perform live, but have seen several decent imitations through the years.

This morning’s run was along the Chicago River Walk, but I wasn’t able to get far because of construction. Our room looks out over the river, between the two iconic circular Marina City condo buildings that at one time looked like something out of the Jetson’s. In the past I’ve been able to follow the Chicago River down to the Lake Michigan waterfront where you can see the famous Navy Pier Ferris Wheel. The wind is beginning to pick up here, but at least the sun is shining. This afternoon I’ll take a walk through Millennium Park to the Art Institute of Chicago near the signs marking the start of Route 66. I’ll pass Harry Caray’s, Dick’s Last Resort, Catch 35 and Smith & Wollensky as I contemplate a martini lunch. Tonight, dinner is at the nearby Chicago Cut Steakhouse. There’s always plenty to eat in Chicago, as I anticipate an Italian Beef sandwich at Wrigley Field during Saturday’s game with the Angels.

My wife is having lunch with her clients, so the afternoon is mine here in “Sweet Home Chicago.” The Museum of Broadcast Communications is also in the neighborhood, so that presents another touristy option that I’ve managed to avoid all these years. Perhaps, there will be too many reminders of my working days, but I do have good memories of listening to WLS radio for the hits and WGN-TV for the Cubs and Sox. You certainly couldn’t count on hits from the Cubs and Sox! This morning on my run it was WXRT radio through my ear buds. It’s decided – I’m on my way down memory lane before I spend any time with Rembrandt.

Old Sport Shorts: Bitter #898

April 6, 2019 / mikeljohnston1 / 0 Comments

After feeling like I pulled off a major victory by simply getting an elusive UPS package in my hands (See Post # 897), I’m watching my 17th straight Final Four without an Indiana University presence, but several Hoosier-grown players. It’s being held in Minneapolis where I watched from great CBS issued seats my Cream & Crimson lose to eventual champ Duke in 1992 Final Four action; the last of the Bobby Knight era. That game was held in the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, while this year’s event is at the newer U.S. Bank Stadium. At least, there’s little danger of a roof collapse. Looking back a few decades, the Hoosiers lost to a 7th consecutive championship bound UCLA team in Knight’s second year of coaching at Indiana, but had won it all on three consecutive occasions prior to the Minneapolis loss. I have fond memories of those years, and they certainly spoiled me on expectations for Indiana basketball. That was a time when we were a perennial power and Final Four appearances were a rule rather than a rarity. I’m not bitter!

After another frustrating I.U. basketball season, I have my doubts that the program will ever see another Final Four, at least in my lifetime. This I never imagined 20 years ago. At least it will say on my virtual tombstone “Been There. Done That.” Speaking of things I never expected to see, it was almost Purdue’s turn this year, as they have somehow managed to build a far superior team with strong future expectations. The Boilermakers and Spartans led the BIG conference again this year and both made it to the Elite Eight. Only the Spartans advanced to Minneapolis and the U.S. Bank Stadium excitement. Indiana finished the year with a bitter loss to Wichita State in the disrespected N.I.T.

I remember how embarrassing it was to drive down to Bloomington, Indiana and watch the Hoosiers lose to Lipscomb University 74-69 in 2008. I had never even heard of the Nashville based school before that time. It was all part of a season that started in Maui with two losses in the Invitational and a narrow consolation victory over lowly Chaminade. The only good thing about that trip is that my friends and I ended up spending less time in the gym as spectators and more time in the glorious sunshine. It ended up being the worst season in the history of Indiana Basketball, finishing with the fewest W’s (6) since 1915–16 and a 1–17 conference record. The only win was against Iowa at Assembly Hall. That was ten years ago and marked the transition from Kelvin Sampson to Tom Crean following disastrous NCAA sanctions. This is when the bitterness really started.

Kelvin Sampson took his Houston Cougars to the Sweet Sixteen this year, while Indiana struggled under second year coach Archie Miller. Even Lipscomb was making fun of Indiana’s #1 seed in the N.I.T. “Coming live from Assembly Hall, 45% of the time they lose every time” was their Twitter statement as both teams were scraping for a spot in the Big Dance. Lipscomb ended up with a #5 seed in the Little Dance, but advanced to the Championship game after easily beating I.U. eliminator Wichita State at the Garden. The Bison then lost to Champion Texas who showed their worth as a #1 seed -just one more thing that I.U. could not accomplish this year. At least, Tom Crean, who now coaches the Georgia Bulldogs failed to make either tournament. I think you can feel my bitterness.

It seems of late that the teams I want to win consistently finish second. My adopted Oregon Ducks men’s team barely failed to get to the Final Four, while their women’s team lost in a close Final Four match-up against top ranked Baylor. In the smaller of the round ball battles, the struggling Cubs won big in their season opener to give me a false sense of positive momentum but have fallen short in six straight thanks to poor relief pitching. The “W” flag has not been flying for a week. Even my White Sox have somehow performed better, but they are still only 3-4. My I.U. frustrations have extended into baseball season with the only consolation being a 3-5 Cardinals start – each St. Louis loss is a victory for me. This shows how desperate I am to share my bitter misery with my friends. It’s as pathetic as I.U. free throw shooting and Cubs pitching, and you can brand me with a bitter “L” on my forehead.

And, one last reason to be bitter, after watching this year’s Final Four. Kyle Guy of Indianapolis just hit a clutch three and made three last-second free throws to lead the Virginia Cavaliers to their first National Championship appearance. Kyle attended Lawrence Central High School and was the 2016 Indiana Mr. Basketball. He had deep Indiana roots with a great grandfather who was the commissioner of the Indiana High School Athletic Association and in the Indiana High School Hall of Fame for both basketball and football. I.U. somehow let him slip away in the recruiting wars, just like Michigan State’s Aaron Henry of Ben Davis High School in Indy. Granted, we got home grown one-and-done Romeo Langford, who brought much needed optimism to the program but in the end failed to meet expectations. Coach Archie Miller has made some inroads with in-state recruiting at I.U., but in the bitter end we’ve fallen short on keeping great players from crossing the border. Should we build a wall?