Sports don’t come with a money-back guarantee when it comes to outcomes. The results are in the hands of human players, beyond our influence. Moreover, unexpected and extraordinary moments can occur when least expected.

(I have always believed that the most incredible game I ever witnessed was a badminton match at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. The match between Malaysia and South Korea, with 3,000 passionate fans from each side, was just as thrilling as any major championship game I’ve attended, such as the World Series, Super Bowl, or Final Four.)

But you can anticipate all you want.

Even then, nothing is flawless. At the beginning of the season, the UConn-St. John’s game was anticipated as a must-watch, but for different reasons compared to what it turned out to be. The Huskies were aiming for a third consecutive championship, while St. John’s emerged as contenders for the Big East title. Months later, the game at Madison Square Garden promises to be a thrilling event, with St. John’s unexpected success adding to the excitement.