Jay Wright: The Wright Stuff
The Big East created the best rivalries in college basketball, better than Duke/UNC. Hence, as a Syracuse fan, I’m not too keen on the likes of Pittsburgh, Georgetown, and Villanova. My dislike has nothing to do with a “Philly” school or not. They’re just a bitter rival. But, a hater has to give props when props are due.
As unlikable as many of the school’s alumni can be, this team is impossible not to like and it all starts with Jerold Taylor “Jay” Wright. The guy is a total class act, which is reflected in the way his teams handle themselves and in the suits he wears, aside from the crazy pinstripes that can make him look like a Dick Tracy villain (re: @jelynchjr).
Wright won the Championship with a true team effort without the likes of a league-ruining one-and-done recruit. His guys play defense as good as anyone in the country. Defense is simply a committment to hustle and hard work, which isn’t always easy to get out of 18-22 year-olds. Kudos to Wright.
His squad is unselfish, as evident in Arch dishing the ball on that final game-winning shot. That’s a direct reflection of Wright. Even after winning the Championship, he remained subdued and let his players bask in the glory. As the team cut down the nets, Jay remained focused on getting everyone involved and making sure they all had a trip up the ladder. For him, this was all about the kids.
The broadcast had shots of Jay addressing the players inside the locker room, before they went digging into a box of National Champions shirts and swag, in what seemed to be another teaching moment. Then, at the press conference afterwards, he pulled the players to the side as they walked off the stage to compliment them on their answering of questions.
In the interviews since the game, Jay repeatedly continues to praise the class of Tar Heels coach Roy Williams. The guy is just too perfect. In a world that includes the likes of Bobby Huggins, John Calipari, and Rick Pitino, and countless other snakes, Jay Wright stands apart in his own galaxy. He was successful doing it his way without players leaving for the NBA after a year.
Hopefully, he won’t be leaving for the NBA. Though, as a ‘Cuse fan, I wouldn’t mind that.
Congrats to Villanova and their fans. More importantly, mad respect for Jay Wright. He’s one impressive coach…and man.