The Big East
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The Big East
The Big East by Dana O'Neil is the definitive account of an extraordinary era in college basketball history. This compelling narrative delves deep into the rise of the Big East Conference, transforming the Northeast from an afterthought in the sport to its epicentre. Through meticulous research and gripping storytelling, O'Neil brings to life the vibrant characters, historic games, and dramatic events that shaped the league's remarkable journey.
The book opens with the origins of the Big East Conference, tracing its beginnings to a simple handshake and a prayer. It highlights the audacious vision of its founders, particularly Dave Gavitt, who rallied a group of predominantly Catholic schools to create something truly special. What began as a bold experiment swiftly evolved into an enduring legacy, rewriting the geographical boundaries of college basketball.
Unlike any other period in the sport, the Big East's golden years were marked by fierce rivalries and legendary players. Names such as Thompson and Patrick, Boeheim and the Pearl, along with unforgettable moments like Villanova's shocking victory over Georgetown and the thrilling Six Overtimes game, are all meticulously recounted. These stories and more are woven together through interviews with over sixty key figures, providing an insider's perspective on the league's ascension.
Before the inception of the Big East, East Coast basketball had achieved scant success, with only three national champions crowned over forty years, the last being in 1954. But the establishment of the Big East changed everything. Within its first decade, five of its teams contended for the national championship. The conference didn't just house great teams; it created them, bringing a new level of competition that captivated fans and players alike.
The Big East transports readers into packed arenas where epic clashes unfolded between transcendent players. It takes you behind the locker-room doors, revealing how combustible coaches like Jim Boeheim and John Thompson fiercely vied for supremacy. As former University of Connecticut men's basketball coach Jim Calhoun reminisces, "It was Camelot. Camelot with bad language."
This book is a treasure trove for basketball enthusiasts, packed with long-standing rivalries, unmatched moments, and juicy insider gossip. Philadelphia magazine aptly states, "This book, full of long-standing rivalries, unmatched moments in the lives of coaches and players, and juicy insider gossip, is, like the game of basketball, a ton of fun."
The Big East is an indispensable chronicle for anyone who loves the game, offering an unparalleled glimpse into an extraordinary time when the Big East Conference was the heart and soul of college basketball.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
The Big East by Dana O'Neil is highly praised for its engaging and richly detailed recounting of the historic Big East basketball conference. Reviewers commend O'Neil's expert storytelling and in-depth research, which bring to life the thrilling rivalries, iconic coaches, and superstar players. The book is described as a must-read for basketball fans, offering an entertaining mix of behind-the-scenes insights and vivid anecdotes.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780593237953
Publisher: Random House USA Inc
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 28 February 2023
Country: United States
Imprint: Ballantine Books Inc.
Illustration: 8-PP colour photo insert
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Width: 132.0mm
Height: 203.0mm
Weight: 0g
Pages: 272
Collections
About the Author
Dana O'Neil, a senior writer at The Athletic, has been a sportswriter and national college basketball reporter for more than three decades, covering eighteen Final Fours. She covered her first Big East game in 1990 and has been a regular at the league's press tables ever since. She has also worked at ESPN and the Philadelphia Daily News and has been honored with multiple writing awards. She served as the president of the U.S. Basketball Writers Association, only the second woman to lead the organization. A graduate of Penn State, she lives in Newtown, Pennsylvania, with her husband and two children.
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