&uot;Go Trojans.&uot;

That seems the understatement of the week today as we join the rest of Pike County in saluting the Troy State University men's basketball team in its Atlantic Sun Conference Championship win on Saturday.

The tournament win earns the Trojans an automatic bid to the NCAA Division I basketball tournament - an honor for any school and an exciting first for Troy State.

While the team earned a bid to the NCAA Division II tournament more than 10 years ago, this is the first bid as a Division I school.

Coach Don Maestri, his staff and the players are riding high today - and deservedly so. This doggedly determined team has fought hard all season, playing consistently and with heart. The 26-5 record and conference championship are evidence of that effort.

Now, it's our turn to salute them - to congratulate them for a season well-coached and well-played, for games won,for sportsmanship and athleticism.

And, of course, we join in wishing them well as they head to the tournament in two weeks.

The Trojans will face big-name competition and we're certain they will play with heart, tenacity and pride.

We salute the Trojans today and look forward to the tournament ahead.