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.