Everyone understands the reasoning behind rules and the imposing of fines.

 

Since 2004, the SEC has been maintaining its efforts to reduce or deter court-storming by implementing a fining system. (Incidentally, the SEC is the only basketball conference to do so). We all know that without a little law and order, every game could result in court-storming that results in accidents and fights.

 

But let’s get one thing straight. Court-storming will never end, no matter how strong the penalty. We all love it. We love to see it, players love it, fans love it, and the media loves it. That’s why we do it.

 

The problem?

 

That would be when should it happen.

 

Once upon a time, it only happened for a tournament bid-clinching victory or upsetting one of the very top teams. But now, it happens at any mediocre event, be it a regular-season win over any ranked team or simply rival school.

 

But let’s look at the facts. The South Carolina Gamecocks have had little to celebrate this season. They're 11-18 for the season and an awful 4-12 in the SEC. Let’s give the lads and ladies something to cheer for; give them the opportunity to show school spirit. Victories like Saturday’s give the fans and the student body a glimmer of what might have been and a glimpse of what is to come.

 

 

The truth of the matter is, while there's a likelihood of peril in court-storming, isn’t this true with most things that are fun? For teams steeped in mediocrity like the Gamecocks, it could be seasons before they get another victory like this, so I say storm the court, cut down the nets, and hang a banner.

 

As a Gamecock fan, I would've been ready to do all the above Tuesday, had the team upset No 1 Florida. Of course, the Gators made certain that didn't happen. I’m sure our fans and alumni would each give a dollar and handle the fines. 

 

In all seriousness, fines are understandable, but when there's an enchanting moment -- like we expect with all the Cinderella stories during March Madness -- then I think that we all will forget about the financial stakes and focus on the magical moment.