Here are a couple reactions from SB Nation blogs regarding West Virginia's loss to Gonzaga and the performance of the Big East in general. The Smoking Musket calls the Mountaineeers' performance a "sad end to a disappointing season" and notes that the game was unfortunate for the departing Kevin Jones, one of the Big East's top players (if not its best player) this season:
It was a sad ending to a great career for Kevin Jones, the player who put this team on his shoulders throughout the year notching double-doubles night in and night out, only with little support most nights.
Big East Coast Bias, meanwhile, notes that UConn's loss to Iowa State could begin big changes for the program.
The team is facing a ban on postseason play next year, and Hall of Fame head coach Jim Calhoun’s status is in question. After 26 years on Connecticut’s sidelines, health issues and dim prospects for another championship in the short run, the loss to Iowa St. that ended UConn’s reign also could mark Calhoun’s last NCAA tournament game.
For much more on the first full day of March Madness, check out SB Nation's StoryStream. Here's a full printable bracket..