Relive a Few of Our Favorite Moments from Saturday’s Big Win

March 31, 2019
Tony Bennett raising a game winning net above his head

It was a big night for the Cavaliers. (Photo by Matt Riley, UVA Athletics)

Atop a ladder for the second time this season, cutting down the nets after his team earned a berth to the Final Four, even Tony Bennett couldn’t contain his emotions – and he was hardly alone.

The University of Virginia men’s basketball coach – known for his calm, steady poise, win or lose – let out a triumphant yell, whirling the net over his head as players and the UVA crowd cheered him on.

It was a memorable moment in a night full of them.

Relive a few and hear from some of the many UVA fans who took to the Internet to share their excitement at the Cavaliers’ 80-75 win over Purdue University.

First, a look at the shot that kept the ‘Hoos alive.

With just seconds left on the clock, third-year forward Mamadi Diakite hit an incredible shot to tie the game after first-year Kihei Clark chased down a rebound, sending the game into overtime. By the way, it’s even better with Titanic music.

After the overtime win, the celebration was on.

In Charlottesville, the celebrants included a newly wed alumna who took a ride on the crowd.

As mentioned, Bennett was pretty excited about his first Final Four berth.

He also shared a special moment with his father, Dick Bennett, who led the University of Wisconsin to the Final Four in 2000 – coincidentally, with a win over Purdue.

UVA alumni – including many of Bennett’s former players – were thrilled.

Former players Isaiah Wilkins – who spoke with UVA Today last week – and Devon Hall watched together, from New Zealand and Australia, respectively. Both are playing in professional leagues halfway around the world, but that didn’t stop them from cheering on their team.

Alumnus and NFL star Chris Long was impressed with third-year sharpshooter Kyle Guy’s effort. Guy gave the Hoos a spark with a 25-point performance, which included an ankle injury that briefly scared fans Saturday night.

Dean of Students Allen Groves was gracious – and many other UVA staff, faculty members and coaches shared in the excitement.

Bennett summed up his feelings on the night in the late-night press conference.

And the team finally made their back to their hotel, where they were greeted with a well-deserved ovation, and lots of pizza.

On Sunday, they made a triumphant return to Charlottesville, greeted by tons of UVA fans at Davenport Field at Disharoon Park. 

 

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Caroline Newman

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March 31, 2019

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