This post is sponsored by EA Sports NCAA Football 2011 as we continue our week-long series celebrating college fandom!
One of the most fun aspects of the NCAA Football 2011 is building a virtual dynasty, and so with that in mind I'm going to give you my picks for the Starting 5 for Villanova's all-time hoops team. Keep in mind I'm a young'n, and I don't know much beyond the 80's. In fact, while we're at it, I'm sticking to what I know. I'm not going beyond that to legends that are just that to me: legends.
So all you old alumni and fans, make sure to point out my ignorance. And away we go...
G - Scottie Reynolds
G - Randy Foye
G - Kerry Kittles
F - Dante Cunningham
F - Ed Pinckney
Coach - Rollie Massimino
My defense for these selections after The Jump...
My Case for Scottie - He's the second leader scorer all-time, and he's up there for steals and assists as well. Jay Wright referred to him as 'the face of Villanova basketball' on multiple occasions. But more than that, he provided a much-needed bridge and carried this program on his shoulders for 4 years following the departures of the 05-06 team that many thought would leave 'Nova scrambling. Not so -- Scottie took his team dancing every year and dazzled us along the way. He's my pick to have his jersey lifted to the rafters next. His meaning to the program transcended his actual game.
My Case for Randy - Probably the most impressive Villanova player I've ever seen live. He could literally do it all. Blow by you with the dribble, spot up for three, D you up, and ignite a crowd. Plus, he's a feel-good story and genuinely a great person, which is becoming more and more of a rarity these days. It came as no surprise when he left as a senior and was drafted in the NBA lottery.
My Case for Kerry - Arguably the most electric and exciting player in the history of the school. If you don't believe me, take a look at the highlight reel that Villanova put together above. It's a jaw-dropper. Kittles is only 1 of 4 All-American (joining Reynolds, Foye and Paul Arizin) and holds 15 Villanova basketball records, including being the all-time leading scorer and holding the most steals. Moreover, he went on to have a very successful NBA career, playing in 2 NBA Finals. In his prime, he's the best player on this team.
My Case for Dante - He's my classmate, so he'll always have a special place in my heart, and that definitely helps him make this team, and I'm not ashamed to say it. But the real reason Dante is on here is that he is a winner, plain and simple. He was the linchpin of the 2008 Final Four team, and he continually made more flashy players look awful along the way. He's a workhorse who improved so much over his 4 years at school that it can't really be measured. Honestly, who thought Dante Cunningham was going to lead us to a Final 4 and play in the NBA when he came to campus? That's a testament to his work ethic and drive.
My Case for Ed - Okay, I lied. I am taking one 'legend' on my team. But how could I not take a player from the only National Championship Team in school history? Pinckney was an absolute horse in college, as evidenced by his stellar title effort against (God, I hate doing this) the incredible Patrick Ewing. Pinckney also gets bonus points for coming home to coach the next generation of Wildcats, and being a part of the rejunvenation of the program during 2 different decades!
My Case for Rollie - Rollie gets the nod over Jay Wright for one simple reason -- bling bling the ring! I had the pleasure of meeting Rollie in the aftermath of our memorable Elite Eight victory of Pitt in 2008. Great guy, and bought me a shot of whiskey at that!
So those are my picks and I'm sticking to them. Please give me your thoughts as well as your own picks in the comments thread below! And remember old guys, yell at me for my ignorance of the golden years!