On March 14, 1981, U.S. Reed hit what is undoubtedly the most memorable buzzer-beater in Razorback history: a half-court bomb that knocked defending national champion Louisville out of the NCAA Tournament and propelled the Hogs into the Sweet Sixteen.
Another indelible moment took place seconds later when the NBC cameras showed then-Texas coach Abe Lemons (the game was played in Austin) joining a group of Razorback fans for a post-game, celebratory Hog call. Abe, who unfortunately passed away in 2002, was quite simply the wittiest basketball coach I've ever seen and one of the game's true characters. I always think of him when I see clips of Reed's shot.
I think the only truly appropriate way to mark the anniversary is for one of the current Hogs to beat Vandy today on an identical shot. I don't think that's asking too much. Anyhoo, if you happen to run into U.S. today, be sure and buy him a beer and give him a hearty thanks for the memories.
[Note: the above picture was taken from the back cover of the 1981-82 Razorback basketball media guide; to see the shot in all of its glory (and to hear Paul Eells' thrilling radio call), just click here. And click here for the box score of the game.]