LOUISVILLE, Ky. — After San Diego State Coach Brian Dutcher snipped the last two strands of the net, he held it aloft like a trophy to admire for his players, coaches, staff and the hundreds of fans who let out a celebratory roar for the Aztecs’ first trip to a men’s Final Four.
Then Dutcher pivoted atop the ladder, placed the scissors in a receptacle, and with his arms outstretched, leaned back until he was free-falling into the arms of his players.
The Aztecs were as sure handed with their coach as they were with the opportunities they’ve been presented along the path to Houston for next weekend’s Final Four.