The practices and press conferences for the four teams playing in D.C., are underway. George Mason coach Jim Larranaga just finished his standup routine from the podium, cracking wise about the Bracket-Buster game last month against Wichita State being a preview of their Sweet 16 matchup tomorrow. "It's almost as if  you couldn't have foreseen it!'' he mugged. He was on fire, soaking up every minute of his time in the spotlight.

Practices are open to the public, and with Mason taking the floor first, there was a pretty good turnout from the locals. Students clearly blew off class today, much as they did much of the week as they lined up for tickets.

At this time, I'd like to thank my wonderful hometown for continuing its tradition of sending road crews to block off major portions of New York Avenue on the day of a big event at the downtown arena. The trip here today was almost a carbon copy of last year's trip for the ACC tournament. There were, of course, flashing signs asking commuters to avoid the congestion and take Metro to the games, which I would gladly do if there was a Red Line stop at, say, Fayette and Charles.

I'd also like to thank Verizon for the fact that once again, their cell phones don't work in most areas of the arena that bears its corporate name. If anyone of you readers are wandering by the Sun building, stop by and let my editors know that I got here.