On the recordMarch 31, 2011
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the George Washington Patriots for winning the West Virginia Class AAA boys basketball championship. The third-seeded Patriots defeated top-seeded Wheeling Park 55-54 to take home the State title. This was a special win for Coach Rick Greene, as he was part of the team that gave the school its first basketball championship 40 years ago. In a close, intense game, the two teams battled to the end. In the final seconds, George Washington was leading 55-52 when Wheeling Park hit what looked to be a three-pointer. However, a review of the shot showed that it was only a two-pointer and George Washington won. Quite a finish. Having two boys who grew up playing basketball in West Virginia for Coach Greene, I have seen both the faces of elation and anguish. A game as competitive and well-fought as this shows the heart and dedication these young men and their coaches put in all season to get to this game. I want to congratulate both teams for tremendous seasons and for giving us such a memorable game. Congrats to Gee-Dub. ____________________
