The Clevelander

Professor Maurice Scherrens addresses the Mason Nation (photo by Cody G. Norman)

Just hours before the Patriots tip-off in their first NCAA Tournament game since 2008, Provost Peter Stearns took the stage at The Clevelander Sports Bar & Grill to address attending members of the Mason Nation.

“I didn’t travel with the team back in 2006,” said Stearns, who is the Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs. “I thought it was important to stay on campus in 2002 to take care of business. I’ve learned that’s silly.”

The Green and Gold Nation screamed louder and louder with every word. And with a smile on his face, Stearns walked down the stairs to an enormous cheer.

Hundreds of students, professors, parents and alumni piled into the weekend’s headquarters for Mason Nation for food and beverages prior to the 2:10 p.m. tip. The crowd watched as the “experts” made their picks for today’s game – two of the three siding with Villanova – and saw their team fall from a one point favorite to a one point underdog.

But the Patriots may be most comfortable in that role.