Did you watch any of the post-game coverage after Villanova defeated North Carolina to win the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship? If you haven’t heard by now, North Carolina senior Marcus Paige tied the game with a clutch and acrobatic three point shot with under five seconds to go, seemingly sending the game to overtime. They only needed 4.7 seconds of defense to get there. But, not so fast, as they say. Villanova junior Kris Jenkins hit the game winner with no time left on the clock. What an amazing moment for Villanova players, alumni and fans everywhere!
I want to draw your attention to the other side of the score, though. To the team that lost. To the player who took the microphone and spoke so eloquently, representing his team after such a devastating loss. Specifically, Marcus Paige; the same player who tied up the game. The same player who told his teammates that if they got to overtime, they would win the game. A senior who just played his very last game. A player who went from the highest of highs to the lowest of lows in just a few seconds.
Friday Food For Thought…
How do you present yourself in your most disappointing moments? How Marcus Paige handled himself at the post-game press conference made him a winner, no matter what the final score was.
He spoke clearly. He looked into the camera. He offered analysis. He made no excuses. He honored his teammates and his school. He was emotional. He was authentic.
Yes, Marcus Paige was on the losing side of the final score. But his performance after the game made him a winner in my book. Watch this video. The second half will convince you of the same.
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