Self was rightly emotional after the game, as he and his family have been through a lot this year. The veteran coach lost his father just a few months ago, and he’s been open about dealing with grief throughout this tournament run.
In the moments after winning the national championship, thus completing a memorable comeback in the process, Self could only think of two things — his student-athletes, of course, and his father.
“It’s great for the kids. It’s especially special for my family this year, because we lost our father two months ago. We had a lot to play for,” Self said.
