Chasing Basketball Memories: The Glory Days of UC and Xavier
Whenever I reflect on my college days, I am inevitably drawn to the vibrant moments that captivated not just my own life, but the entire campus. The sport that held center stage during my time at the University of Cincinnati (UC) was undoubtedly basketball. This is a tale of nostalgia, rivalries, and the changing dynamics of college sports that I’ve witnessed firsthand.
UC Basketball: A Golden Era
My basketball memories at UC were primarily associated with the formidable UC yearly record during the era of coach Bob Huggins. During my early years at UC, we had an incredible standout player in Danny Fortson, but the highlight of the era was undoubtedly the 1998-2000 period when another star named Kenyon Martin graced the court. These years were golden for UC basketball. Every game was a spectacle, with the Maddening Just William’s arena buzzing with energy, and the orange and black shirts filling the stands to the brim.
The Xavier Rivalry: A Big Event
Nature of the city lent to a strong rivalry with the neighboring university, Xavier. The “cross town shootout” was a grand event that drew passionate fans from both universities. Every year, the two teams faced off in a highly anticipated game, often a sellout with intense emotions and a palpable sense of competition. The rivalry reached its zenith during the 1990s when both teams produced legendary players and showcased outstanding skills on the court. As an in-town rival, Xavier added a layer of familiarity and excitement to the matchups. We both had our doers – UC had Fortson, Martin, and the legendary Bob Huggins; Xavier similarly boasted key players who led the charge.
The Decline and the End of an Era
However, the good times didn’t last forever. As legal issues and physical altercations became more frequent, tensions rose, and the atmosphere around the games began to change. The once-cordial relationship between the two universities turned hostile, leading to the suspension of the Crosstown Shootout in 2005. The physicality and the energy were replaced by a more heated, albeit less thrilling, atmosphere. This was a turning point that marked the end of a golden era in Cincinnati basketball and shifted the focus away from on-court action to off-field controversies.
Post-Crosstown Shootout: A New Landscape
After 2005, I had moved away from the area, and thus, my connection to college basketball dissipating. The lack of a local university to follow and the distance from a major sports hub meant that my enthusiasm for basketball took a back seat. This was further compounded by the fact that while I was not physically close to a big school, the quality of college basketball games in the region didn’t rouse the same level of interest as before.
Final Reflections: A Love for Basketball Remains
While basketball is no longer a significant part of my life, the memories from my university days still hold a special place in my heart. The crosstown rivalry, legendary players, and countless games played under the Maddening Just William’s dome are fondly remembered. Working at UC and attending classes there allowed me to be part of this arena culture, and the emotional connection I fostered with the team is something that will never fade. Basketball, especially when it involves the intense and spirited rivalries of the UC and Xavier teams, was more than just a sport; it was a significant part of the cultural tapestry of the city.
Conclusion
My time at UC basketball was a thrilling journey, filled with memorable moments that I still cherish. The cross town rivalry between UC and Xavier was just one of the many aspects that enhanced the experience. Today, the city of Cincinnati may not be as reliant on college basketball as it once was, but the nostalgia and the love for the game remain. For those who have experienced the thrill and excitement of competing on such a stage, the memories will always endure.