Ep 3. Reviewable: 1981 Men's Basketball
- June 19, 2020
In BYU Sports Nation Special season 1 episode 3, titled "Reviewable: 1981 Men's Basketball," the hosts take a look back at the 1981 BYU Men's Basketball team and their journey to the NCAA Tournament. Led by head coach Frank Arnold, the team had a dominant regular season, finishing with a record of 25-2 and earning a number five seed in the West Region of the tournament.
The episode features interviews with members of the team, including All-American guard Danny Ainge, who went on to a successful career in the NBA. Ainge reflects on the team's chemistry and the key moments that led to their success, including a dramatic win over Notre Dame in the tournament's opening round.
The hosts also examine the historical context of the team's season, including the landscape of college basketball at the time and the role of BYU as a small, faith-based institution. They delve into the team's journey to the NCAA Tournament, including their trip to Albuquerque, New Mexico for the opening rounds and their showdown with Ralph Sampson and the Virginia Cavaliers in the Sweet 16.
Throughout the episode, the hosts analyze key moments from the season and provide context for viewers who may be unfamiliar with the team's legacy. They discuss the significance of the team's success for BYU and the state of Utah, and reflect on the impact of the 1981 team on the following decades of BYU basketball.
"Reviewable: 1981 Men's Basketball" is a must-watch for fans of BYU sports and college basketball history. The episode provides a fascinating look at one of the most successful teams in BYU basketball history and explores the special moments and personalities that made the 1981 season so memorable.