Volume One: I Came, I Saw, I Conquered!

Volume One: I Came, I Saw, I Conquered! Chapter 33: March Madness, Here We Come! Butler University, Hinkle Fieldhouse.

"If we lose this game, we'll have to leave it up to those 'lords' on the committee. And given the Bulldogs' track record, I don't think those guys will give us an at-large bid. In their eyes, Indiana doesn't have any universities."

Swish!

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

"Welcome, everyone, to SEC Cable TV's broadcast of the Horizon League playoff final. Tonight's matchup is between the Butler University Bulldogs and the Indiana State University Simocks."

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

You're an Indiana State legend. Couldn't you at least spare the school a little dignity?

The players burst into laughter. The NCAA committee had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"What do you mean? The board has a hard requirement that we make the Sweet Sixteen. Are you hoping I get fired?"

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

After moving the ball around the perimeter, Indiana State had no choice but to settle for a three from Moore. It clanged off the rim, and possession went to the Bulldogs.

6–3.

"Indiana State has long been a powerhouse in the Horizon League and a regular at March Madness. But this season, under Coach Z, Butler University has come out of nowhere, claimed the top spot in the Horizon League, and stormed through the playoffs. They've come roaring onto the scene as a dark horse."

But Curry saw that Moore seemed distracted. He didn't call for a screen. Instead, he stopped a step in front of him and launched a three!

"I watched Indiana State play Butler in the season opener. Butler won that game decisively, and they've shown tremendous dominance throughout the regular season."

"The winner of this game will go straight to the final 64 of the NCAA tournament. This matchup is crucial for both teams!"

Curry brought the ball up court. Moore looked ready to defend, but he was more focused on Drew, who was behind him to the side. According to McKenna's prediction, Curry would rely heavily on pick-and-roll offense.

Moore blamed himself even more this time. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"Take us all the way to the national championship."

"We're lucky to have NBA legend and Indiana State alumnus Larry Bird joining us as a commentator... Mr. Bird, welcome. Say a few words for everyone."

Kevin Haywood, SEC Cable TV's sports commentator, spoke with great enthusiasm.

Curry brought the ball up court. Moore looked ready to defend, but he was more focused on Drew, who was behind him to the side. According to McKenna's prediction, Curry would rely heavily on pick-and-roll offense.

Zhang Yu clapped his hands hard. Team captain AJ Graves led the players in raising their arms and shouting:

The players burst into laughter. The NCAA committee had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"The winner of this game will go straight to the final 64 of the NCAA tournament. This matchup is crucial for both teams!"

"How long do we have to keep doing this?" Zhang Yu finished discussing things with Stevens, then clapped his hands to draw everyone's attention. He cleared his throat and said loudly, "I remember asking you on my first day here whether you wanted to go to March Madness. Now I'm asking again: do you want to go to March Madness?"

Swish!

"Hello, everyone. I'm Larry Bird."

Larry Bird sat beside him and spoke in his distinctive voice.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

Kevin Haywood spoke with great enthusiasm.

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

Indiana State legend, and you can't even spare the school a little dignity?

"What do you mean? The board has a hard requirement that we make the Sweet Sixteen. Are you hoping I get fired?"

Butler University, Hinkle Fieldhouse.

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

Indiana State could only pass the ball around the perimeter before Moore's long-range three clanged off the rim. Possession went to the Bulldogs.

6–3.

"Among them, Indiana State has long been a powerhouse in the Horizon League and a regular at March Madness. But this season, under Coach Z, Butler University has come out of nowhere, claimed the top spot in the Horizon League, and stormed through the playoffs. They've come roaring onto the scene as a dark horse."

But Curry saw that Moore seemed distracted. He didn't call for a screen. Instead, he stopped a step in front of him and launched a three!

"I watched Indiana State play Butler in the season opener. Butler won that game decisively, and they've shown tremendous dominance throughout the regular season."

"The winner of this game will go straight to the final 64 of the NCAA tournament. This matchup is crucial for both teams!"

Curry brought the ball up court. Moore looked ready to defend, but he was more focused on Drew, who was behind him to the side. According to McKenna's prediction, Curry would rely heavily on pick-and-roll offense.

Moore blamed himself even more this time. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"Take us all the way to the national championship."

"We're lucky to have NBA legend and Indiana State alumnus Larry Bird joining us as a commentator... Mr. Bird, welcome. Say a few words for everyone."

Kevin Haywood, SEC Cable TV's sports commentator, spoke with great enthusiasm.

Curry brought the ball up court. Moore looked ready to defend, but he was more focused on Drew, who was behind him to the side. According to McKenna's prediction, Curry would rely heavily on pick-and-roll offense.

Zhang Yu clapped his hands hard. Team captain AJ Graves led the players in raising their arms and shouting:

The players burst into laughter. The NCAA committee had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"The winner of this game will go straight to the final 64 of the NCAA tournament. This matchup is crucial for both teams!"

"How long do we have to keep doing this?" Zhang Yu finished discussing things with Stevens, then clapped his hands to draw everyone's attention. He cleared his throat and said loudly, "I remember asking you on my first day here whether you wanted to go to March Madness. Now I'm asking again: do you want to go to March Madness?"

Swish!

"Hello, everyone. I'm Larry Bird."

Larry Bird sat beside him and spoke in his distinctive voice.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

Kevin Haywood spoke with great enthusiasm.

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

Indiana State legend, and you can't even spare the school a little dignity?

"What do you mean? The board has a hard requirement that we make the Sweet Sixteen. Are you hoping I get fired?"

"The winner of this game will go straight to the final 64 of the NCAA tournament. This matchup is crucial for both teams!"

"The winner of this game will go straight to the final 64 of the NCAA tournament. This matchup is crucial for both teams!"

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

The players burst into laughter. The NCAA committee had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"What do you mean? The board has a hard requirement that we make the Sweet Sixteen. Are you hoping I get fired?"

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

Swish!

"Hello, everyone. I'm Larry Bird."

Larry Bird sat beside him and spoke in his distinctive voice.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

"Butler's defense has been unable to stop Curry, who has hit a deep three over Woz's outstretched hand! Less than three minutes into the game, he's already three for three from beyond the arc. Indiana State has no answer for him!"

Kevin Haywood's voice was full of excitement.

In the end, Curry went 12-for-19 from the field, 6-for-11 from three, and 4-for-4 from the line. He finished with 34 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals, leading the Bulldogs to an 86–62 rout of Indiana State. Butler won the Horizon League championship and secured a place in March Madness!

No matter how hard Kevin Haywood tried to walk it back, the game kept unfolding just as Larry Bird had predicted. At halftime, the Bulldogs led Indiana State 50–35, a 15-point advantage.

"The winner of this game will go straight to the final 64 of the NCAA tournament. This matchup is crucial for both teams!"

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"I promised a friend I'd come see Butler play, so I accepted SEC's invitation."

Larry Bird smiled.

Zhang Yu and Stevens finished their discussion, then clapped their hands to draw everyone's attention. He cleared his throat and began:

How am I supposed to commentate on this? What am I supposed to tell the audience?

In the end, Curry went 12-for-19 from the field, 6-for-11 from three, and 4-for-4 from the line. He finished with 34 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals, leading the Bulldogs to an 86–62 rout of Indiana State. Butler won the Horizon League championship and secured a place in March Madness!

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

But Curry saw that Moore seemed distracted. He didn't call for a screen. Instead, he stopped a step in front of him and launched a three!

"No. If I'm being objective, I think Butler is more likely to win."

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"I didn't expect to be standing in the final this early in the season," Stevens said with a sigh.

"...Let's watch the game!" Zhang Yu said, each word deliberate.

Clap, clap, clap!

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

Clap, clap, clap!

Soon the game began. Drew won the jump against Tannell, and the Bulldogs went on offense.

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"I promised a friend I'd come see Butler play, so I accepted SEC's invitation."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Then go win this game. Show me how determined you are. I kept my promise and brought you to the final. Now it's your turn. Go fight. Win a championship for the fans who have always supported you. March Madness is waiting—walk in with your heads held high, right in front of your rivals!"

"You mean to say Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

Clap, clap, clap!

Soon the game began. Drew won the jump against Tannell, and the Bulldogs went on offense.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu fell behind, walking toward the court with Stevens.

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

Clap, clap, clap!

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

Soon the game began. Drew won the jump against Tannell, and the Bulldogs went on offense.

"You really started dreaming?"

Swish!

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

The Bulldogs had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"What do you mean? The board has a hard requirement that we make the Sweet Sixteen. Are you hoping I get fired?"

Zhang Yu glanced at him.

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

"...Let's watch the game!" Zhang Yu said, each word deliberate.

Soon the game began. Drew won the jump against Tannell, and the Bulldogs went on offense.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu glanced at him.

Stevens opened the locker room door and gestured toward the exit. The players charged out with fire in their eyes.

"I promised a friend I'd come see Butler play, so I accepted SEC's invitation."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

Soon the game began. Drew won the jump against Tannell, and the Bulldogs went on offense.

"Beautiful move. Curry's shot is falling tonight, and he's letting it fly without hesitation!"

Kevin Haywood praised him.

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

The players burst into laughter. The NCAA committee had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"Butler's defense has been unable to stop Curry, who has hit a deep three over Woz's outstretched hand! Less than three minutes into the game, he's already three for three from beyond the arc. Indiana State has no answer for him!"

Kevin Haywood's voice was full of excitement.

Larry Bird shook his head and said:

Zhang Yu clapped his hands hard. Team captain AJ Graves led the players in raising their arms and shouting:

The players burst into laughter. The NCAA committee had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"How long do we have to keep doing this?"

Zhang Yu finished discussing things with Stevens, then clapped his hands to draw everyone's attention. He cleared his throat and said loudly:

How am I supposed to commentate on this? What am I supposed to tell the audience?

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"I didn't expect to be standing in the final this early in the season," Stevens said with a sigh.

"...Let's watch the game!" Zhang Yu said, each word deliberate.

Clap, clap, clap!

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

Clap, clap, clap!

Zhang Yu clapped his hands hard. Team captain AJ Graves led the players in raising their arms and shouting:

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

But Curry saw that Moore seemed distracted. He didn't call for a screen. Instead, he stopped a step in front of him and launched a three!

"No. If I'm being objective, I think Butler is more likely to win."

"So Indiana State has no chance of winning?" Kevin Haywood continued.

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"I didn't expect to be standing in the final this early in the season," Stevens said with a sigh.

"...Let's watch the game!" Zhang Yu said, each word deliberate.

Clap, clap, clap!

Zhang Yu clapped his hands hard. Team captain AJ Graves led the players in raising their arms and shouting:

"Hello, everyone. I'm Larry Bird."

Larry Bird sat beside him and spoke in his distinctive voice.

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

The players burst into laughter. The NCAA committee had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"How long do we have to keep doing this?"

"Take us all the way to the national championship."

This time, Moore blamed himself even more. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"You really started dreaming?"

Swish!

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

Zhang Yu glanced at him.

Zhang Yu clapped his hands hard. Team captain AJ Graves led the players in raising their arms and shouting:

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

But Curry saw that Moore seemed distracted. He didn't call for a screen. Instead, he stopped a step in front of him and launched a three!

"The winner of this game will go straight to the final 64 of the NCAA tournament. This matchup is crucial for both teams!"

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

Clap, clap, clap!

Soon the game began. Drew won the jump against Tannell, and the Bulldogs went on offense.

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"I promised a friend I'd come see Butler play, so I accepted SEC's invitation."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu glanced at him.

Stevens opened the locker room door and gestured toward the exit. The players charged out with fire in their eyes.

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

Zhang Yu clapped his hands hard. Team captain AJ Graves led the players in raising their arms and shouting:

"Hello, everyone. I'm Larry Bird."

Larry Bird sat beside him and spoke in his distinctive voice.

"How long do we have to keep doing this?"

Stevens opened the locker room door and gestured toward the exit. The players charged out with fire in their eyes.

"You really started dreaming?"

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Don't think you've already won!"

The players burst into laughter. The NCAA committee had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"Beautiful move. Curry's shot is falling tonight, and he's letting it fly without hesitation!"

Kevin Haywood praised him.

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

This time, Moore blamed himself even more. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Then go win this game. Show me how determined you are. I kept my promise and brought you to the final. Now it's your turn. Go fight. Win a championship for the fans who have always supported you. March Madness is waiting—walk in with your heads held high, right in front of your rivals!"

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

The players burst into laughter. The NCAA committee had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"How long do we have to keep doing this?"

Zhang Yu glanced at him.

Stevens opened the locker room door and gestured toward the exit. The players charged out with fire in their eyes.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

The players burst into laughter. The NCAA committee had always been a favorite target of jokes among Indiana's universities.

"I promised a friend I'd come see Butler play, so I accepted SEC's invitation."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu glanced at him.

Soon the game began. Drew won the jump against Tannell, and the Bulldogs went on offense.

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"How long do we have to keep doing this?"

"Take us all the way to the national championship."

"Beautiful move. Curry's shot is falling tonight, and he's letting it fly without hesitation!"

Kevin Haywood praised him.

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

"Don't think you've already won!"

Soon the game began. Drew won the jump against Tannell, and the Bulldogs went on offense.

Zhang Yu glanced at him.

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

Stevens opened the locker room door and gestured toward the exit. The players charged out with fire in their eyes.

"I didn't expect to be standing in the final this early in the season," Stevens said with a sigh.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu glanced at him.

"Take us all the way to the national championship."

Zhang Yu clapped his hands hard. Team captain AJ Graves led the players in raising their arms and shouting:

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Butler's defense has been unable to stop Curry, who has hit a deep three over Woz's outstretched hand! Less than three minutes into the game, he's already three for three from beyond the arc. Indiana State has no answer for him!"

Kevin Haywood's voice was full of excitement.

Larry Bird sighed and spoke in a tone of exasperation:

Zhang Yu glanced at him.

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

"Butler's defense has been unable to stop Curry, who has hit a deep three over Woz's outstretched hand! Less than three minutes into the game, he's already three for three from beyond the arc. Indiana State has no answer for him!"

Kevin Haywood's voice was full of excitement.

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Moore raised his hand in frustration, taking responsibility for the mistake.

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Then go win this game. Show me how determined you are. I kept my promise and brought you to the final. Now it's your turn. Go fight. Win a championship for the fans who have always supported you. March Madness is waiting—walk in with your heads held high, right in front of your rivals!"

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

This time, Moore blamed himself even more. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"Bulldogs, let's win!"

The other players joined in, their cheers filling the locker room and echoing faintly down the players' tunnel.

Stevens opened the locker room door and gestured toward the exit. The players charged out with fire in their eyes.

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Take us all the way to the national championship."

"You really started dreaming?"

Larry Bird shook his head and said:

The ball barely brushed Woz's fingertips as it traced a graceful arc through the air. Everyone watched it drop straight through the net!

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

"You really started dreaming?"

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"Hello, everyone. I'm Larry Bird."

Larry Bird sat beside him and spoke in his distinctive voice.

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

Butler University, Hinkle Fieldhouse.

Moore raised his hand in frustration, taking responsibility for the mistake.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

"Beautiful move. Curry's shot is falling tonight, and he's letting it fly without hesitation!"

Kevin Haywood praised him.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"...Let's watch the game!" Zhang Yu said, each word deliberate.

Butler University, Hinkle Fieldhouse.

Soon the game began. Drew won the jump against Tannell, and the Bulldogs went on offense.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

This time, Moore blamed himself even more. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"What do you mean? The board has a hard requirement that we make the Sweet Sixteen. Are you hoping I get fired?"

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Don't think you've already won!"

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

In the end, Curry went 12-for-19 from the field, 6-for-11 from three, and 4-for-4 from the line. He finished with 34 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals, leading the Bulldogs to an 86–62 rout of Indiana State. Butler won the Horizon League championship and secured a place in March Madness!

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Hello, everyone. I'm Larry Bird."

Larry Bird sat beside him and spoke in his distinctive voice.

"You really started dreaming?"

"Then go win this game. Show me how determined you are. I kept my promise and brought you to the final. Now it's your turn. Go fight. Win a championship for the fans who have always supported you. March Madness is waiting—walk in with your heads held high, right in front of your rivals!"

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

This time, Moore blamed himself even more. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"Bulldogs, let's win!"

The other players joined in, their cheers filling the locker room and echoing faintly down the players' tunnel.

After a round of passes around the perimeter, Indiana State had no choice but to settle for a three from Moore. It clanged off the rim, and possession went to the Bulldogs.

The ball barely brushed Woz's fingertips as it traced a graceful arc through the air. Everyone watched it drop straight through the net!

"Don't think you've already won!"

This time, Moore blamed himself even more. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"Don't think you've already won!"

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

This time, Moore blamed himself even more. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"Bulldogs, let's win!"

The other players joined in, their cheers filling the locker room and echoing faintly down the players' tunnel.

After a round of passes around the perimeter, Indiana State had no choice but to settle for a three from Moore. It clanged off the rim, and possession went to the Bulldogs.

The ball barely brushed Woz's fingertips as it traced a graceful arc through the air. Everyone watched it drop straight through the net!

"You really started dreaming?"

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"How long do we have to keep doing this?"

"Take us all the way to the national championship."

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

This time, Moore blamed himself even more. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"Bulldogs, let's win!"

The other players joined in, their cheers filling the locker room and echoing faintly down the players' tunnel.

After a round of passes around the perimeter, Indiana State had no choice but to settle for a three from Moore. It clanged off the rim, and possession went to the Bulldogs.

The ball barely brushed Woz's fingertips as it traced a graceful arc through the air. Everyone watched it drop straight through the net!

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"Hello, everyone. I'm Larry Bird."

Larry Bird sat beside him and spoke in his distinctive voice.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Butler University, Hinkle Fieldhouse.

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Don't think you've already won!"

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

"You really started dreaming?"

Larry Bird shook his head and said:

The ball barely brushed Woz's fingertips as it traced a graceful arc through the air. Everyone watched it drop straight through the net!

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

"How long do we have to keep doing this?"

"Take us all the way to the national championship."

Zhang Yu clapped his hands hard. Team captain AJ Graves led the players in raising their arms and shouting:

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"The game's already over. After a season of experience, Curry isn't the raw freshman he was in the season opener. Moore looks helpless against him, while Indiana State hasn't improved at all. They have no answer for Butler's upgraded zone defense. I can't see how they turn this around. Congratulations to Butler on making March Madness!"

In the end, Curry went 12-for-19 from the field, 6-for-11 from three, and 4-for-4 from the line. He finished with 34 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals, leading the Bulldogs to an 86–62 rout of Indiana State. Butler won the Horizon League championship and secured a place in March Madness!

The ball barely brushed Woz's fingertips as it traced a graceful arc through the air. Everyone watched it drop straight through the net!

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

Moore raised his hand in frustration, taking responsibility for the mistake.

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

This time, Moore blamed himself even more. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"Emotionally, of course I want the Simocks to win. My jersey hangs above the Herman Center."

Larry Bird smiled.

"Then go win this game. Show me how determined you are. I kept my promise and brought you to the final. Now it's your turn. Go fight. Win a championship for the fans who have always supported you. March Madness is waiting—walk in with your heads held high, right in front of your rivals!"

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

"Don't think you've already won!"

"Hello, everyone. I'm Larry Bird."

Larry Bird sat beside him and spoke in his distinctive voice.

"You really started dreaming?"

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

This time, Moore blamed himself even more. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"Bulldogs, let's win!"

The other players joined in, their cheers filling the locker room and echoing faintly down the players' tunnel.

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Take us all the way to the national championship."

"You really started dreaming?"

"Don't think you've already won!"

The ball barely brushed Woz's fingertips as it traced a graceful arc through the air. Everyone watched it drop straight through the net!

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

"You really started dreaming?"

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"Hello, everyone. I'm Larry Bird."

Larry Bird sat beside him and spoke in his distinctive voice.

"Then what chance does Indiana State have of winning?" Kevin Haywood pressed on.

Butler University, Hinkle Fieldhouse.

Moore raised his hand in frustration, taking responsibility for the mistake.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

"Beautiful move. Curry's shot is falling tonight, and he's letting it fly without hesitation!"

Kevin Haywood praised him.

"So Indiana State has the edge?" Kevin Haywood immediately followed up.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"...Let's watch the game!" Zhang Yu said, each word deliberate.

Soon the game began. Drew won the jump against Tannell, and the Bulldogs went on offense.

"Don't think you've already won!"

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Long time no see, Coach McKenna."

Moore blamed himself even more this time. He'd been so close to stopping Curry. How had he not seen that coming?

"What do you mean? The board has a hard requirement that we make the Sweet Sixteen. Are you hoping I get fired?"

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

"Don't think you've already won!"

The game had barely started. How could he already be so sure of the outcome?

"Now we're just one step away from March Madness. Win this game, and we'll be one of the final 64 teams in the nation."

"Keep in mind, the Bulldogs' star, Stephen Curry, is only a freshman. After a season of experience, he'll only get better. And though Coach Z is young, there's no question about his coaching talent."

Zhang Yu and Stevens walked out of the locker room and headed for the court.

The second half was much the same. Curry kept up his scorching shooting from the first half, drawing the opposing defense's full attention and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Indiana State players were left scrambling to keep up.

"The game's already over. After a season of experience, Curry isn't the raw freshman he was in the season opener. Moore looks helpless against him, while Indiana State hasn't improved at all. They have no answer for Butler's upgraded zone defense. I can't see how they turn this around. Congratulations to Butler on making March Madness!"