Go Patriots!

Go, Mason! So the Patriots didn’t win the CAA Conference, and VCU gave us a whooping last week. But our George Mason basketball team is great, and everybody knows it. The players, Coach Larranaga, his entire staff and the fans are anticipating some thrilling games at the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

If you haven’t had your fill of Patriot basketball -- and who has? -- the Selection Show Watch Party this Sunday will be a blast! It will be held in the atrium of the Johnson Center. You can park for free in Lots A, J and K. If you’re a first-time visitor to the Johnson Center, just follow the crowds streaming across the campus.

Although the start time is scheduled for 5:45, plan to get there well ahead of time. You won’t be bored as you wait for the action. People-watching is an art at George Mason. Dapper Doc Nix in his gorgeous suits, the energetic Green Machine and all the students sporting gold and green hair can entertain you for hours.

Coach Jim Larranaga and the Patriots of course will be there, giving fans a chance to say goodbye and thank you to Seniors Cam Long and Isaiah Tate. The cheerleaders, the Masonettes and The Patriot, Mason’s gigantic new mascot, will cheer us on, while Doc Nix and his magnificent, musical Machine inspire us to yell even louder.

Two large TV screens in the atrium will enable everybody to get a clear view of the CBS Selection Show. The Patriots will give away T-shirts and other coveted items such as (we hope) Mardi gras beads, wigs and hats. If you’re not a winner, however, you can always run over to the bookstore and buy anything your heart desires.

Some of the restaurants in the Food Court will be open if you’re starving. After the Watch Party, drive over to Brion’s Grill in University Mall for more food, fun, and schmoozing with Fairfax’s favorite basketball team. Go, Patriots!