The Upset

That old wound is slowly healing. On Dec. 28, at Wright's urging, Massimino and his extended family attended Villanova's game against North Carolina- Greensboro at The Pavilion. A family portrait was snapped, on the floor, before the game. When Massimino's name was announced, he received a standing ovation. Next year, says Stack, a banner will be raised to the rafters in his honor, long overdue.

Unlike all of his players from the miracle team, Massimino has never watched the entire championship game tape. A little of the first half, a little of the second, but never the whole game and never the finish. "You know why?" he asks, leaning forward in a lounge chair at his country club. There is a pause, and Massimino's eyes dance like old.

"I'm afraid we'll lose."