This is a historical year for the University of Northern Iowa men’s basketball team. The Panthers are the highest ranked in the polls than any time in their history. For the Panthers and their fans, this is a proud accomplishment. A 22-2 record is extraordinary and being the highest ranked team in the state of Iowa is another great accomplishment. In the many years to come, this season will be memorable. There is a chance for the Panthers to eclipse the shot of Ali Farokhmanesh that put a dagger to the University of Kansas’ season. Talk exists about the Panthers making the Final Four, but this is premature.

    Five years ago the Panthers were not as high on the national radar. They then beat a Kansas team that was ranked among the best in the tournament. The Panthers were underrated in 2010, but this year is different. The chatter about the Panthers in the national media has started to cause the Panthers to become overrated. The hype surrounding the Panthers is having an effect on Panther fans. Students who were nowhere near the McLeod Center last season are showing up in the masses this season.

    While I believe the Panthers have a chance at the Final Four, this is not the time of year to be making this prediction. It is early February, and many games are left on the schedule. The Panthers and their fans need to take the schedule one game at a time. Fans need to cherish the present Panther tea, and not the hypothetical Panther team in the Final Four.

    Through my short, depressing athletic career in high school, I learned a few valuable lessons. One of them was to never get ahead of myself. It is important to focus on the moment and not what lies in the distant future. This is a lesson Panther fans can take to heart because this year’s team is unique. Making the Final Four will be sweeter when taking each game at a time. Thinking of making the Final Four at this point in the season can only set up for disappointment for Panther fans if they lose in the second round.

    The most important part to this magical year for Panther fans is to wholeheartedly support the team. To go to the game and cheer loud for the Panthers. While keeping in mind, the Panthers are not a guaranteed lock for the Final Four. As a matter of fact, they might not win their first game in the tournament. It is important to enjoy the present and be thankful for this wonderful season. This is a great year to be a Panther fan.