Marquette Coach Shaka Smart Leads Golden Eagles to Sweet 16
DALLAS (AP) — Marquette coach Shaka Smart is making waves in the NCAA Tournament as he leads the Golden Eagles to the Sweet 16 for the first time since his Final Four run with VCU 13 years ago. Smart, who took over at Marquette two years ago, is once again on familiar Texas turf, this time in Dallas, just 200 miles from the campus of the Texas Longhorns.
Smart’s journey to the Sweet 16 has been a redemption story of sorts, especially after a disappointing NCAA Tournament run with Texas. Despite not winning an NCAA Tournament game in his six seasons with the Longhorns, Smart has found success with Marquette, winning three games in this year’s tournament, including a tight second-round victory over Colorado.
As Marquette prepares to face North Carolina State in the South Regional on Friday night, Smart is focused on the opportunity to cut down the nets in a state where March Madness has not always been kind to him. The players, too, are motivated to win for their coach and for each other.
For sophomore Chase Ross, who was recruited by Smart at Texas before following him to Marquette, a potential celebration in his hometown of Dallas holds special significance. While Smart downplays the Texas connection, his players understand the importance of the moment and are determined to give their all on the court.
As the Golden Eagles gear up for their Sweet 16 matchup, the focus remains on the task at hand. With Smart’s leadership and the team’s determination, Marquette is poised to make a statement in the NCAA Tournament and continue their impressive run under the guidance of their coach.