[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 41 (Wednesday, April 5, 2000)]
[House]
[Page H1826]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    NATIONAL CHAMPION MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS MEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM

  Mr. BARCIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join my colleagues from 
Michigan to pay tribute to the National Champion Michigan State 
Spartans Men's Basketball team.
  On Monday night, this group of fine young men provided us with a 
display of sportsmanship, dedication, and perseverance that all of us 
must admire. This group, affectionately known as the ``Flintstones'' 
because of several players who hail from the Flint area, overcame many 
adversities, such as halftime deficits and injuries throughout the 
tournament on their way to the championship.
  The heart and soul of the Michigan State team is their senior 
leadership. At a time when many college athletes make a quick jump to 
the professional ranks, it is refreshing to see this talented group of 
young men stay in school, get their education, and use their God-given 
talent and their experience to lead the Spartans to the National 
Championship.
  Often times people place too much emphasis on athletics, especially 
college athletics. But this Michigan State team has taught us an 
important lesson. We have learned that through hard-work, dedication 
and loyalty you can achieve your dreams. Young people often look to 
sports figures to role model and the young men of the Michigan State 
basketball team are truly worthy of that admiration.
  I would like to salute Head Coach Tom Izzo, Seniors Mateen Cleaves, 
Maurice Peterson, and A.J. Granger, Saginaw native Jason Richardson, 
and the entire Spartan team for an outstanding season. You have made us 
proud, not just as Spartan fans, but as Michiganders. Congratulations.

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