As expected, Liberty didn't have the horses to compete with LSU. There's no shame in that.

Liberty's Cinderella run to the Sweet Sixteen provided a great story for the tournament, and it also provoked some spirited debate about difficult issues of religion, politics, sexual orientation, and tolerance. That sort of debate is healthy in a democratic society.

To those who say we should keep politics out of sports, I say: consider Jackie Robinson, Billy Jean King, and the Miracle on Ice. Sometimes it's more than just a game, and that's a good thing.

Finally, on a personal note, I am extremely proud of Liberty assistant Kelley Siemon Deyo, and old family friend. She is the most accomplished basketball player ever to come out of my high school, where she played with my sis April before heading to the Notre Dame to win a national championship. It's always great for an old fan like me to follow the career of a hometown hero like Kelley.