Did You See That Butler Game?!?!

So?  Did you?

That game was CRAZY - with a CAPITAL C.  Well, and capital R-A-Z-Y, too, for that matter.  But it is exactly the reason I am so proud to be a Bulldog, especially in March!

They always keep me on my toes when watching a game and never give me a chance to stop jumping around, screaming at the TV.  I love it and hate it all at the same time, but I wouldn't miss it for the world - unless, of course, I have to work.

One of my favorite parts is watching a game with someone who isn't necessarily a Butler fan and doesn't understand "The Butler Way."  It's just an entirely different way of playing basketball, and of carrying yourself or living your life.

The Butler Way focuses on team playing, or the group over the individual.  It "demands commitment, denies selfishness, and accepts reality, yet seeks constant improvement."  The entire college commits itself to The Butler Way and teaches the students to live this way as well.  It creates an environment of cohesiveness and a sense of family.

In basketball, it also creates a calm confidence.  It results in a slower-paced game, which throws off the opponent who is constantly trying to run down the court.  Another major difference that is very visible during a game is Coach Stevens' attitude.  While the other coaches are running up and down the sidelines, stomping their feet like a child and screaming at their players, Brad Stevens stands calmly on the sidelines, signaling plays.  He doesn't scold the players as they come off the court.  Instead, he pats them on the back and gives a few encouraging words or some constructive criticism.  I love to point out when the other coach is winded and red-faced, Stevens is calm, cool, and collected, watching Butler win a game.

The Butler Way makes all the difference.  They may not have the perfect record or the top stats in the largest conference, but they play the right way.  And they are a pretty darned good team at the end of the day, with a fairly decent record.  Oh, and there's that little thing about a spot in the SWEET SIXTEEN!

GO BUTLER!