College basketball and its annual March Madness extravaganza have emerged over the last three decades as one of the most popular sporting phenomena in America. Perhaps no one personifies the excitement of this tournament better than Jim Valvano whose heavily underdog North Carolina State Wolfpack achieved the pinnacle of success in college basketball in 1983 with an unlikely run through the NCAA Tournament culminating in an incredible onepoint victory over Houstons heavily favored Phi Slamma Jamma squad in the championship game.While that Cinderella story was Valvanos only national championship he quickly came to symbolize the exuberance and excellence of the exciting world of college basketball. Valvano transcended his sport touching millions as he emerged as one of the most charismatic and ultimately courageous figures in American life who touched millions.Diagnosed with bone cancer he joined ESPN to comment on college basketball games.