Over the years here at UBFAN, I have written many different versions of this same post...with names or conferences changed.
The first step is to win, consistently.
The second step is to be at the right place at the right time.
Being successful at Step 1 increases the likelihood of Step 2. But you can't get to Step 2 without Step 1.
Having followed UB sports (especially football and basketball) for almost 30 years, the two biggest things to happen to put UB on the path towards Step 1 was hiring Gill and Hurley.
The hug after the BSU MACC between Gill and Manuel...there should be a picture of that (large size) somewhere in Alumni. It signified a step change.
Finally making the NCAA basketball tournament was another step change.
Now we have to win and win consistently. Beating WVa in a true road game helps establish that consistency in many different ways.
Though I am not in Buffalo, I will wear my UB gear today proudly.
Go Bulls!