Sister Jean and Loyola-Chicago have been the biggest story of the 2018 NCAA Tournament, but did you know that the last team to defeat the Ramblers were our very own Fighting Hoyas of Georgetown?
That’s right, kids. On March 21, 1985, the Hoyas led by Patrick Ewing defeated the Ramblers by a score of 65-53. Even back then the Ramblers were no slouch in March, leading the Hoyas by 2 at the half before fading late in the Sweet 16 battle.
The Ramblers beat Iona 59-58 in the first round before defeating Southern Methodist 70-57.
Then the giants loomed.
The Ramblers, without a player taller than 6-foot-9, didn’t have anyone who could look the 7-foot Ewing in the eyes. The Hoyas, known for coach John Thompson’s chaotic precision, would be a challenge, and the Ramblers knew they had to beat them with a perimeter game and Chicago-bred toughness.
”They did have Patrick Ewing,” Klusendorf said. “But I don’t think there was a guy in that locker room who didn’t think we could get it done.”
With three minutes to play, the Ramblers were down by only five. But with Hughes in early foul trouble, the Hoyas pulled away for a 65-53 victory. Georgetown went on to lose to another underdog, Villanova, in the title game.
For those interested, here is the replay of the game courtesy of You Tube: