I’m surprised Hollywood hasn’t already turned this into a movie. It really is the stuff of legends and dreams.

On May 31, Birmingham Southern College closed its doors for good due to financial instability. The very next day, the Birmingham Southern College Panther baseball team hits a walk-off home run to advance in the College World Series.

Basically, the players are representing something that doesn’t exist anymore. If by some miracle they win it all, there will be no place to put the trophy. No place to hang the banner. No students waiting to congratulate the champions.

It’s the very best kind of sports story, like a Hoosiers but with more heart.

I remember my high school came close to closing its doors when I was a sophomore. I don’t remember much, but I do recall not begging God to let it stay open and desperately not wanting to go anywhere else to finish out my education. Thankfully, the school stayed open.

I can’t imagine win or lose not having a school to return to in the fall. Knowing after the fact that your last day of classes for the semester were the last classes ever. I don’t know how many of these players are on sports scholarships or how many will even be able to continue their education.

I do know that there’s more baseball to play. At this point, all they can think about is winning the next game. It’s either win or go home for good.

But the best part is that now they can play without any pressure. They can play for the love of the game again like they did way back when they first picked up gloves and bats as little tykes.

I’m always one that likes to root for the underdog, especially the ones that no one gives a chance or expects to win. I’m praying for these players and coaches and their families, and I’m hoping for one last blaze of glory for Birmingham Southern College.