The NCAA Tournament's first round on Thursday delivered one of its most memorable moments, not just on the court but in the broadcast booth, as No. 12 seed High Point University pulled off a stunning 83-82 victory over No. 5 Wisconsin. Student-radio basketball broadcasters Jimmy Rosselli and Griffin Wright, representing the small North Carolina college, shed all impartiality in their electrifying call of the game's frantic final minute, capturing the raw emotion of the historic upset.
Unfettered Excitement Goes Viral
Rosselli and Wright, known for their passionate commentary, lost their composure in the best way possible as High Point secured the win. In a now-viral clip, Rosselli can be heard yelling, "Throw on the glass slipper! It's a Cinderella story in Portland, Oregon! For the first time in program history, High Point breaks through. We'll see you in the round of 32! Oh, what a feeling!" The pair posted a split-screen video of their reactions to the on-court action, which has been viewed over a million times, showcasing their genuine enthusiasm.
A History of Viral Fame
This isn't the first time Rosselli and Wright have captured attention. They earned viral fame around this time last year after High Point came from behind to win the Big South Championship final. Their unedited audio from Thursday's game further highlights their dynamic, with Wright exclaiming to Rosselli, "This is not real, Jim! This is not real!"—a sentiment that resonated with fans and viewers alike.
What's Next for High Point
With the victory, High Point now advances to face a fourth-seeded Arkansas team coached by John Calipari, who once led Kentucky to a national championship. This sets up a high-stakes matchup that promises to test the underdog's mettle. When asked by the New York Post if the team had a chance against Arkansas, Wright simply responded, "It's March," encapsulating the unpredictable nature of the tournament.
The broadcasting duo's reaction has become a symbol of the passion and unpredictability that define March Madness, reminding fans why this event captivates audiences year after year. Their viral moment underscores how student broadcasters can bring a unique, unfiltered perspective to sports, making the games even more thrilling for listeners and viewers worldwide.
