All we can say is that it will be a few weeks, or, more likely, months, before 4th & Forever can truly look forward to next season without lamenting about what 2010 coulda (shoulda) been. This Syracuse team was special. They have earned a sacred place on the mantle above the Orange Nation’s heart. Yes, the very heart that Butler coach Brad Stevens ripped out of our chests in Salt Lake on Thursday…and then held it up so we could watch the season dribble out slowly to an excruciating end.

It’s so hard to say goodbye. Andy, you and your ridiculous 3’s and at times horrifyingly bad hair cuts will be sorely missed. A.O., you and your dominating post presence and FG% (career 67%) will be missed so, so much…but be sure to pack your FT% (career 39.5%) and give it to Goodwill or something. Please don’t just leave it around the gym where some incoming freshman might find it.

And, with just the Wesley Johnson announcement remaining, we close the doors on one of the most exciting and enjoyable seasons ever produced by Jim Boeheim and Syracuse Basketball.