When we posted this item about how Richmond was the best basketball area in America based on getting two teams (Richmond and VCU) into the Sweet 16 of the 2011 NCAA bracket, we knew it was a little tongue-in-cheek. Obviously, Richmond is no Tobacco Road, but we did find it funny that both have two teams left in the 2011 NCAA Tournament.
The city of Richmond, however, would prefer to enjoy its moment in the sun. This was the front-page image of the Richmond Times-Dispatch on Monday morning, one day after VCU shocked Purdue and two days after Richmond defeated Morehead State. The banner headline reads "Hoopstown USA: VCU, UR in Sweet 16." Congratulations, city of Richmond. You earned the right to have that headline.
The amazing thing is that there could be a city battle on our hands in the Elite 8. If VCU defeats Florida State, and Richmond somehow shocks Kansas, we are guaranteed to have a Richmond team in the Final Four. We should probably start coming up with a name for that game in case it happens. Y'know, to help the Richmond Times-Dispatch headline writers.
(And no, not "Civil War," though I applaud the attempt).
HT: Quickish.