Some call it tradition. Others say it’s an outdated practice. 

However you describe it, waiting for CBS’ montage of NCAA postseason tournament highlights set to Luther Vandross’ “One Shining Moment” is worth staying up for. 

Sure, the cheese factor is dialed up to 11. But set the song to the joy of victory and agony of defeat, and it’s something that tugs at the heartstrings. 

For Texas Longhorn basketball fans, recent years haven’t yielded that “One Shining Moment” they’ve clamored for. Inconsistency and failed expectations have placed the program in stagnation.  

But like a stiff spring Texas breeze, the winds of change soon swirled. And with one announcement last Thursday, hope is renewed for Longhorn fans hoping to see the Longhorns cap off “One Shining Moment.” 

The hire of Shaka Smart from Virginia Commonwealth University is a strong step for a Texas program needing change. 

Over a five-year period, Smart helped catapult an already successful Virginia Commonwealth program into a household name. During his tenure, Smart led VCU to the school’s only Final Four appearance in 2011 as an 11 seed. 

Under his guidance, VCU claimed a conference tournament title in 2012, and had reached the NCAA tournament in four straight seasons.

Let’s throw out his record for now. Instead, let’s focus on what he brings from a coaching perspective. Specifically, the “havoc” style of play he instilled at VCU. 

Smart’s use of a high–pressure game plan could spur apathetic Texas basketball fans to consider attending a basketball game. 

In short, Texas needs a boost. Recent years have seen the Longhorns style of play seem boring and outdated. Smart’s use of pressure defense could bring a heightened level of excitement to the Forty-Acres. 

His youth could play a factor as well. To have accomplished what he has at 37, Smart has the skills to hold over the most basketball savvy of players and fans. His youth could be an asset in connecting with his players – a trait he seemed to have while at VCU. 

But the road may be arduous for Smart; implementing his strategy will take time. With the size Texas is projected to hold over next year, Smart must morph his style to the strengths of his team.  

Of course, losing Isaiah Taylor and Miles Turner to the NBA draft will complicate things. 

But the future looks optimistic for Texas basketball – a feeling not felt in over a decade. 

With so much promise, one would think Smart and the Longhorns could have “One Shining Moment” of their own someday.