From DD's Blog - The Hammer Speaks

[Wisexuowl]

I have loved this kid from day one ... and we will miss him as much as anyone who ever played for us.

Someday soon, Stanley Burrell will be gone from Xavier and pre- and post-game interviews will be a lot more boring.

From my tape recorder to your computer screen:

“We are the best team in Xavier history,” Burrell said. “Even though we haven’t made it to the Elite Eight yet, our overall season speaks for itself. It’s not like we just got hot at the end. We’ve been playing good basketball the whole year. The schedule we had, the way we performed, it speaks for itself. I’m not saying that to be cocky or arrogant. I’m just saying we’re the best Xavier team ever – ever. Even though this game is huge and you want to win. Win or lose, you can’t take away what we’ve accomplished this season. This team will forever be remembered in Xavier history. I’m just glad to be a part of it and contributing. Everyone’s been worrying about the team first, and that’s how we got as far as we did. Without that, we wouldn’t be here.”

“Me personally, I’ve made a lot of sacrifices for this team. Going into the year, I saw I had a chance to finish in the top 10 all-time at Xavier in scoring. I thought, Wow. That’d be great. But wouldn’t I rather go out being a champion, being on top. What’s more important? In my eyes, winning is more important. I’m so glad to see my attitude rub off on the other guys.

“If I would have come in at the beginning of the year trying to get mine, then we’d have C.J. trying to get his and B.J. trying to get his, Derrick trying to get his. Instead, we’ve got this contagious team environment. And look at us now, Sweet 16.”

[realxfan]

Stans a big reason why this team can get to the Final 4 and win it all. He isn't afraid of anybody and knows this team can beat anybody, it has rubbed off on the other guys as well. You see it in the body language and confidence they display...In the history of the school I really don't think we've had players who really believed they could win it all. He's sacrificed scoring for defense and leadership and I feel good about this weekend.

[picknroll]

Sir Stanley's comments are good, but being humble is not one of his strong suits.

[Masterofreality]

You don't win or contend for National Championships by being "Humble". Respectful? Yes.

You' ve to be good...and know it.

I love that kid. Believe, Stan, believe!!

[D West]

Sir Stanley's comments are good, but being humble is not one of his strong suits.

Pick, it ain't braggin when you do it. This is the best Xavier team ever when you consider start to finish. The elite 8 team had great players and made a run but at 17-12 at one point, they were far from terrific most of the year.

Stan sometimes speaks too freely and you wish he would tone it down but the guy is a winner and his teammates believe in him. That's what you call a leader.