Pitt’s “Zoo Crew” plays WVU’s “Best Virginia” in TBT

Following Saturday’s wins at the Petersen Events Center, Zoo Crew and Best Virginia will play each other in the basketball tournament on Monday night at 8 p.m.

“More than excited,” Zoo Crew’s leading scorer Mike Young said of the upcoming matchup with Best Virginia. “I don’t even think that’s a good word. It’s bigger than that.”

“I was here five years and those games, I think everybody in Pittsburgh and West Virginia knows what those games mean to us,” Zoo Crew coach Gilbert Brown said after Zoo Crew’s opening-round win. “So I have no doubt these guys are ready.”

Brown had his fair share of moments against the Mountaineers, including an explosive 15-point showing his senior year with numerous game-winning baskets.

Young, on the other hand, never had the chance to play against West Virginia in his college career.

“I’ve never had a rivalry game…” Young said. “Win a game. I’ve got to win. We’re at home, we’re in Pittsburgh. It’s a home game for us. Hopefully we’ll have more fans at the next game. We’ve got to win. That’s all I think about.”

Zoo Crew won the opening round against Million $ Worth of Game (based in Philadelphia, PA) thanks to 24 points from Young and great performances from Nike Sibande, Dustin Sleva and Jamel Artis, who made the decisive free throw to decide the decisive elam final.

Best Virginia also defeated Brotherly Love Pro-Am Foundation, another Philly team, on Saturday. The team had 10 players score at least two field goals in the lopsided victory, including Wesley Harris, who made 6 of 15 field goals.

“It’s kind of how (TBT) set up the bracket on purpose. I’m from West Virginia, so I take it a little more personally,” said Virginia head coach/GM Chase Harler. “Esa (Ahmad) and I played against them in college and I don’t think I’ve ever lost to Pitt. I hope if they win, I can keep that tradition going.”