No offense to Tony Caridi, but his catchphrase for when the Mountaineers pull off a big upset is just appropriate today.
West Virginia 70, No. 2 UCLA 65.
This is the biggest win for the Mountaineers since 1983’s win, at home, against then No. 1 UNLV. It is also the second straight win for WVU. It defeated UCLA last year at Pauley Pavilion.
West Virginia, unranked, led for most of the game and at one time had a 19 point lead. UCLA dwindled the lead down with a big run midway through the second, but the Mountaineers were able to overcome and persevere. This was a much better performance than Wednesday’s embarassing loss to Pitt, where West Virginia only scored 47 in the loss.
For a team that is rebuilding - West Virginia lost four starters going into the season - this is an even bigger victory. At the start of the season, I would’ve been happy with a NIT berth, because of the loss of so many players. With this win, West Virginia should be in the NCAA tournament.
So, West Virginia alums and fans - start singing Country Roads. Get the couches ready. Morgantown is going to be on fire tonight.
