Portland State University is playing in the NCAA tournament today for the second year in a row. They face off against Xavier in Boise, Idaho, at 4:25 pm.
I truly enjoy watching basketball, especially if I’m drinking at the same time. The problem is I’m not so great with the lingo. I’m picking it up slowly and surely, but I’m still shaky on things like the concept of “pick and roll,” and what exactly a point guard does. But do I let this get in the way of enjoying the athleticism and passion of college ball? Nay!
When I was doing my time at PSU, I was not, and had never been, a sports guy. It wasn’t until I met my good friend (and soon to be Oregonian freelance sports writer) Ian Ruder that things began to change for me. With his guidance, I was able to peel away my sports cynicism and just get into sporting events for what they were: spectacles of competition and physical prowess, both exciting and beautiful.
So, I watch, understanding more each time, and eager to learn. What have I learned about the impending PSU/Xavier game? I had no idea that PSU is ranked fourth in the nation for 3-point shooting. The star player Jeremiah Dominguez is apparently a monster from outside, but the rest of the PSU crew can hit those long shots just as well. From what I hear from Ruder, who was practically giddy when he heard about their ranking (13) and the venue (Idaho), PSU has a shot at winning this first round match.
My biggest question is where to watch the game. I was going to don my PSU sweatshirt and head to the Cheerful Tortoise, which will easily be the rowdiest bar in town for the duration of the game, but I’m racking my brain trying to think of other places to go.
I have a few ideas, but I’d love to get some Blogtownie suggestions. Whaddya say Blogtown sports fans? What’s your favorite sports bar?
Claudia’s. Go for a game, stay for karaoke. Or if you’re me, meet friends for the tail end of a sporting event, and say “OH, GAME OVER ALREADY? WEIRD. ANYWAYS, WHO’S SINGING OASIS WITH ME?”
Winners in Parkrose for motorsport events.
Even though it’s full of douche-lickers, I like the Agency because it looks like Optimus Prime’s nut sack in there.