"I'd like to," said Pelphrey, as his eyes welled with tears, "but I can't...talk."

Such is the agony of defeat. It doesn't matter how many times this game is shown on ESPN Classic. I still feel so badly for Kentucky's Unforgettables. But underdog stories wouldn't be so inspiring and beloved if they happened everyday, would they? Most times, Goliath still wins.

I think this book does a very good job of setting the stage for the game. We're given enough background on the path to the regional final for both teams. Duke on its quest for a repeat national title with one of the most talented teams ever assembled. Kentucky trying to restore their reputation after devastating NCAA sanctions with Rick Pitino at the helm (this book makes me love Pitino even more). I've read better recounts of games in other books, but this one is still good. And ultimately, I think I like this book more for its story than for its execution. But if your story is this fantastic, who cares?! It's still a wonderful book recommended for any college basketball fan.

A few things: 1) How much does every non-Duke person on earth want to just punch Christian Laettner in the face? I totally would have if I had been one of his teammates. His book interviews don't change those feelings. At all. 2) Always a great moment when the Unforgettables get their jerseys retired. Very touching. 3) Duke players insinuating that the Fab Five weren't anything, that THEY were in fact America's team of fab five starters is just ridiculous. Downplaying that Michigan team's significance is silly. 4) The hype is valid. This game was the best ever.

Shout out to my dad and brother! They were IN ATTENDANCE at this game!