Rutgers basketball: 50 years later, a Final Four team is celebrated as a shining example of resilience and unity. On March 6, 1976, the Rutgers basketball team embarked on a journey to Madison Square Garden, driven by their determination to secure an ECAC title and an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. However, their starting forward, Hollis Copeland, was missing. Coach Tom Young was prepared to leave him behind, but his roommate and senior guard, Mike Dabney, intervened. With the bus driver's help, they found Copeland, who went on to have an exceptional game, scoring 22 points and leading Rutgers to a 70-67 victory. This triumph earned them a coveted seed in the East Region, paving the way for their journey to the Final Four. The 1975-76 campaign, known as 'the unforgettable season' in Rutgers lore, was a testament to the team's unwavering spirit and camaraderie. Most members of that squad attended the annual Meet the Team banquet, where they were honored with commemorative varsity jackets. Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell, who served as emcee, praised the team, highlighting their loyalty, resilience, and support for one another. The event also served as a fundraiser for the Joe Boylan Endowed Scholarship, launched in honor of the beloved assistant coach who passed away in 2021. Three of the four living starters from 1976 were present, including former point guard and head coach Eddie Jordan. The gathering was a reminder of the strong bonds formed during the team's success, and it sparked questions about the possibility of similar connections among the current Scarlet Knights. Despite the challenges of modern college athletics, the 1976 team's legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of unity and the importance of cherishing these moments.
