Every March, I say this at least once, and I think most people just politely ignore me. However, I think I shall say it again, just in case.....
The annual college basketball tournament has a couple catchy phrases: "Sweet Sixteen" and "Final Four".
The phrase usually used for this week in between Sweet Sixteen and The Final Four is usually called "Elite Eight". Say Elite Eight out loud. I think it falls pretty darn flat. Not only that, it's a bit of a tongue twister.
However, just reverse the two words, and I think it can hold its own with the other two phrases. Try it: "Eight Elite". Say it out loud. Hear the difference?
I swear, one of these years, I am going to start a letter writing and email campaign to all the TV, radio, and print journalists to please start saying "Eight Elite".



Is it over yet? I never know.
Cheryl, we were One and Done at the University of Arizona this year, so I'm with Mary. No biggie. LOL
Mike in Tucson
Everybody -- This is really more about linguistics than it is about basketball. Which phrasing sounds "peppier" to you?
Elite Eight or
Eight Elite