The Virginia Cavaliers took home their first ever national title after beating the Texas Tech Red Raiders, 85-77, in a closely contested affair that went to overtime.
It was one of the better national title games in recent memory, and while it has it's fair share of controversial calls, the game was no less mouthwatering.
Of course, with the NBA having a one-day break, most players from the league were glued on the clash. And as expected, they all shared their reactions on Twitter in a historic night for Virginia and their basketball program.
Free agent player Carmelo Anthony leads the group of pros to send their congratulations to the Cavaliers, with the likes of Charles Oakley, Kendrick Perkins and Los Angeles Lakers president of basketball operations Magic Johnson also chiming in.
Congrats to @VirginiaSports ! 2019 @marchmadness champs! #STAYME7O
— Carmelo Anthony (@carmeloanthony) April 9, 2019
Congratulations to @UVAMensHoops
— Charles Oakley (@CharlesOakley34) April 9, 2019
Congrats @UVAMensHoops! Well Deserved and I’m Happy for you guys!
— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) April 9, 2019
Congratulations to UVA and my daughter-in-law, UVA alumna Lisa Johnson, on winning the National Championship! @Brandgirl
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) April 9, 2019
Philadelphia 76ers star Tobias Harris, meanwhile, praised the Cavaliers. However, he also took the opportunity to advocate for collegiate players to get paid. In fact, he even took a shot at the recent NCAA commercial about the life of collegiate student athletes.
Epic game, Congrats Virginia!! But look, these dudes got to get paid. End of story! Don't be fooled by them acting @ncaa commercials… #shadybusiness #ncaachampionship
— Tobias Harris (@tobias31) April 9, 2019
Meanwhile, some NBAers pointed out the great turnaround for Virginia, who became the first no.1 seed to fall to a no.16 seed last year.
Much respect to UVA… lose to a 16 seed then win it all 👏🏼
— Pat Connaughton (@pconnaughton) April 9, 2019
As much as I joked in Round 1– in all seriousness, just an amazing turnaround and story for Virginia Basketball. Congrats to Coach Bennett and the Hoos. As cool and wild of a two year story as you can make up.
— Sam Dekker (@dekker) April 9, 2019
On the other hand, Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki and Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young showed support to Texas Tech despite the heartbreaking loss.
Keep ya head up @jarrettc08 you made your city, your university, and most importantly your family, Proud !!
You made history my brotha !!
Nobody can take that away from you🙏🏽💯— Trae Young (@TheTraeYoung) April 9, 2019
Feel horrible for @TexasTech Great run!
— Dirk Nowitzki (@swish41) April 9, 2019
It was undoubtedly a historic evening for both teams. While Virginia will relish winning their first title, Texas Tech should hold their heads high after becoming the first team in their program's history to reach the final four — let alone the championship.