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Murray State dropped a 69-68 decision to visiting UT-Martin this evening. The defeat left the Racers 20-8 overall and 10-5 in conference play. And I know that the coaches, players, and fans are all disappointed.
But everyone should remember that this could still be a terrific season. Almost every team loses games they shouldn't lose. It's hard to explain. It vexes coaches and fans alike. But it happens to everybody.
Ask Michigan fans how they feel about the 4th ranked Wolverines losing to 8-19 Penn State.
The Racers had an incredible year last year. Everything went right. But some people act like last season changed everything forever. And it didn't. It ended last March.
This year's team lost two projected starters before the season began. And still, somehow, they have managed to win 20 games.
Do you know how many times Murray State won 20 games between 2000 and 2009? Three times. They did it seven times in the 90's but just four times in the 80's. And from 1960-1979 the Racers won 20 games just once. They have done something they had only done 15 times in the last 50 years. Don't discount that.
Even if Murray State loses out and finishes 20-11 it has still, by any reasonable measure, been a good year.
Of course, I don't expect that to happen. I expect a victory over SEMO on Saturday and a victory over Eastern Kentucky next Friday to set up a rematch with Belmont in the OVC Tournament final.
And then? Your guess is as good as mine. It could easily be another rousing Racer victory that we will all remember for years to come.