An open letter from the editors of The State Hornet to the men?s basketball team:

Dear Men?s Basketball,

Believe it or not, we, as pen pushers and paper jockeys, do take time out for Sacramento State sports. Let us be one of the many to congratulate you for your outstanding 9-3 home record, and your vast improvement overall. We couldn?t help but notice, however, that you have lost your last 45 Big Sky Conference games on the road.

Granted, only five of those losses have come this season. But let?s face it, a jinx is a jinx. So, The State Hornet issues you a challenge. We want you to win one conference road game this season. While that may not mean much in a 28-game season, breaking the curse could be a step toward greater success.

While most of us are not basketball experts, knowledge of the sport does not seem to be your problem. After all, you have won your fair share of games. We can, however, advise you on your psychological barriers.

First, don?t be intimidated by hostile crowds. They may wear different colors, but they have the same feelings and emotions as your own fans. Perhaps it would be best to pretend they are rooting for you. If this is impossible, you may have to encourage Sac State fans to travel with you for one of your final two road games at Montana and Montana State on Feb. 22 and 23 respectively. Their devotion has been impressive here at Sac State.

Other than that, just do what you?ve been doing. And remember: the baskets will not get any taller, and the court won?t get any longer.

Sincerely,

The editors