Brian Dutcher reveals his mindset prior to San Diego state's comeback in Final Four

Brian Dutcher and San Diego State continued their magnificent March Madness run in spectacular, buzzer-beating fashion on Saturday.

The moment was one for the ages, as Lamont Butler made a name for himself and etched himself into Aztecs history with his game-winning shot as time expired. However, it never would’ve happened if not for a furious comeback that got San Diego State in position for the shot.

Things looked bleak for Dutcher’s team at times, as San Diego State look at the scoreboard and saw FAU leading by a score of 54-40 with a little under fifteen minutes remaining in the game. Still, Dutcher’s team never lost hope, and willed their way back into the game, and now the Aztecs leader is sharing what he told his squad to reignite their fire.

“I just kept telling them even at halftime that Florida Atlantic plays how they play. They’re up-tempo, they’re fast, they’re going to take open shots,” recollected Dutcher. “I didn’t feel as they were going to try to slow the game down and grind it out. I knew they would continue to play aggressive basketball.

“Thank goodness for us they missed a few shots and we got a few stops and got back in the game.”

It’s sad to see Florida Atlantic’s run come to an end, but what a journey and a moment for San Diego State. The Aztecs have one more game between them and the unlikeliest of titles, and they have all the momentum going into Monday.

San Diego State, Brian Dutcher heading to Monday’s title game

Alas, the journey is not quite over for San Diego State. Another game is still to be played, with the national championship occurring on Monday night. UConn will be the opponent, and it won’t be an easy task for Brian Dutcher’s squad

Nevertheless, that’s probably not something people in San Diego thought they would thinking about at this time of the year. The Aztecs are playing for a national championship.

“It’s unbelievable,” Butler said. “It’s what I came here to do. I’m glad the shot went in and I’m just happy for my team right now.”

Ironically, Dutcher does have experience in title games, doing so at Michigan back in the day. However, he was always an assistant coach. He will now be the one in charge of the program but unsurprisingly, is just happy for the people around him.

“I’m just happy these guys get to experience it for the first time,” Dutcher said. “My coaching staff — I’m so proud of all of them. The hard work they put in. They’re deserving.”