The Central Florida Losing Locker-room Was One Sad Scene | Video

While the feeling in the victorious Duke locker-room was that of utter jubilation, the scene in the losing Central Florida dressing area could be described as downright distraught.

Talk about a wild swing of emotions in the wake of the 77-76 second round classic.

Here is UCF head coach Johnny Dawkins addressing his despondent squad, in the minutes after watching a chance at history roll off the Colonial Life Arena rim. The clip continues with Dawkins and his players further consoling each other in defeat.

“We end in tears...that’s because we’ve invested so much in each other.

I love you guys. It’s been amazing coaching this group.” -@Coach_Dawkins pic.twitter.com/B58DbNZzWO

— UCF Men’s Hoops (@UCF_MBB) March 25, 2019

Dawkins played point guard for Duke and legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski (1982 through 1986), winning national player of the year honors in a senior season that involved advancing to the NCAA title game.

After a solid nine-year NBA career, Dawkins returned to Duke’s Durham (NC) campus, serving as a Krzyzewski assistant coach for 10 seasons, before leaving for head coaching stints at Stanford (eight seasons) and now UCF (third season).

Amazingly, Dawkins’ son Aubrey served as the Knights top player on Sunday, posting 32 points and 4 assists.