After achieving the largest comeback in the first round of March Madness history, VCU's head coach Phil Martelli Jr. publicly acknowledged the efforts of the student journalists from the university. Specifically, he highlighted Ben Rekosh, the director and on-air commentator for the school's radio station WVCW Sports, along with other reporters. Martelli commended them for their dedication, recounting how they braved a snowstorm to cover the team during a game in Davidson, indicating their commitment to bringing the stories of the VCU team to the public.

Martelli's remarks not only celebrated the students’ hard work but also pointed to their significance in the sports media landscape, suggesting that student journalists can rival their professional counterparts. He emphasized that their passion and willingness to travel for coverage made them invaluable. Additionally, Martelli humorously mentioned that their commitment to sports journalism led them to miss a game for Valentine's Day, showcasing the light-hearted rapport existing between the coach and the student reporters.

In the broader context, Martelli's comments shine a light on the often-overlooked contributions of student journalists who work tirelessly in the shadows of professional media. By acknowledging their efforts during a high-stakes moment for VCU, the coach not only validated their role in sports reporting but also encouraged future student engagement in journalism, highlighting the importance of storytelling in sports.