While many of the great games and heroes produced by the NCAA tournament are well-known to sports fans, there are countless stories that have been forgotten. That changes with 'The Cardinals Rule and 63 Other Dreams'. This book, which was produced after countless hours of meticulous research, chronicles every game played in the NCAA tournament in 1986, when the field was expanded to 64 teams, setting the stage for the explosive growth in popularity of an event that rivals the Super Bowl as America's favorite sports spectacle.
The familiar stories, such as Louisville's run to the championship, are all here and told in rich detail. But what makes 'The Cardinals Rule and 63 Other Dreams' special is that it delves into every game that was played in that unforgettable tournament, with summaries that bring to light surprising facts and memorable moments from each step in the championship chase. From Cleveland State's Cinderella run behind "Mouse" McFadden to the infamous clock malfunction during the thrilling Kansas-Michigan State Sweet 16 classic to LSU's improbable march to the Final Four – this book includes all of these great stories and many, many more. In addition, each summary includes a full box score that provides an important statistical backdrop to its corresponding game.
The book starts with a lengthy recap of the 1985-86 regular season that helps set the stage for the detailed review of the NCAA tournament. There is also a short essay on the '86 tournament Most Outstanding Player, Pervis Ellison; a full list of the tournament statistical leaders; the complete standings of every conference; and finally a listing of all players from the tournament who were selected in the 1986 NBA draft.
This book will prove to be a treasure trove of information for the die-hard hoops fan but also a fascinating history of one of this country's great events that all sports fans can enjoy.
