June 4, 2009

The news out of Memphis as it relates to Derrick Rose and his SAT test taking or lack of SAT testing taking reminds us that college basketball has had this type of problem for years.

News broke last week that Memphis could lose its record 38 wins from the 2007-08 season along with its Final Four appearance.　

Memphis will appear before the NCAA committee on infractions on June 6.  If the university cannot provide sufficient evidence that Rose was eligible to play basketball in 2007-08, the NCAA may vacate its 38 wins and its Final Four appearance.

Lets go back in the time machine to 1971.  UCLA is poised to win another NCAA basketball title, but first they have to get by Villanova.  A scrappy Villanova lead by Howard Porter gives UCLA it’s closest call during the Bruins’ run of seven straight titles.  Villanova loses 68-62, but impressive Villanova and Howard Porter earn their accolades.  Porter is named the tournament’s outstanding player.  Soon after it is learned that Porter has signed a professional basketball contract with the Pittsburgh Condors of the American Basketball Association during his season year.  Pfft! All of sudden the NCAA championship game appearance and all victories of Villanova were vacated.  Look up the NCAA tournaments outstanding player for 1971 and you will see the words “vacated”

Though Memphis is dealing with the SAT problem in respect to Rose’s eligibility, and Porter’s problems arose from signing with an agent and a pro team, the NCAA loves taking away already earned victories (just ask Bobby Bowden)

link for more on Derrick Rose:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/05/28/derrick-rose-sat-scandal_n_208809.html