Saint Mary's Becoming March Success Story

One of the biggest zero to hero stories in tournament history is the one that is unfolding in Saint Mary's. Not only has this team not made the sweet sixteen in over 50 years, but they have yet to win a tournament game since 1959. The last time that the Gaels won a tournament game, they won all of them. This year does not look to be any different. For the first time since 1959, the Gaels have not only won a tournament game, but they have advanced to the Sweet Sixteen. The amazing team that they have right now is a big reason for this success. This team really wants to win, and they are doing it. This success story is one for the books. Saint Mary's is sure to be an out of nowhere success story that will be told for years to come. In 10 to 20 years, there is sure to be a movie just like "Rudy" or "Invincible" about this team.

After such a long drought, the Gaels are really set to go the distance. There are two key players on this team that can carry this team to the winners circle. Omar Samhan is the first of these players. This guy is unstoppable and a player that has a history as surprising as this team. According to an interview with Josh Dubow, his freshman year, Samhan was slightly overweight but went around the locker room predicting his rise to the NBA. A brazen statement from a player that no one wanted, but here he is in the Sweet Sixteen with several NBA teams admiring his scoring drive. Samhan has made one other prediction at the beginning of the season: the Gaels would win it all this year. So far he is 1 for 1 in his predictions and looks to make it a perfect score. With his impressive play and near perfect two point conversion, Samhan is surely doing his best to make the second prediction come true.

The other player on this "wonder team" is Mickey McConnell. From outside the three point line, this kid is unstoppable. A little short for the sport at 6 foot even, this kid from Arizona is one of the best players in the NCAA right now. Not only is he spot on from the 3 zone, but he is a leader to this team. He is able to rally everyone to the cause and light a fire in this young team. His two pointers and free throws are impressive as well, but when he is deep, there is no stopping him.

The combination of these two amazing players and their ability to drive this team is a true testament to the team still being in the tournament. These two can easily carry Saint Mary's Gaels to the Final Four and maybe even beyond. A true Cinderella team that is sure to upset the brackets. Considering that Baylor is the next step on the path to the trophy, it is very possible they will keep going. Duke will likely beat out Purdue and the true challenges will begin for this college team. Once the Gaels make it past Duke, then everyone will know that they are a true contender. After all, the last time St. Mary's won a tournament game, they went all the way.

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Samhan Dominates Opponents, Wins Over Fans