One Shining Moment Stands the Test of Time

While I was doing research for an upcoming post, I came across the website for “One Shining Moment” the song that captivates basketball fans across the globe with the conclusion of March Madness. The writer, David Barrett, composed the lyrics on a napkin while waiting for a friend and then spent 15 minutes putting it to music when he returned home. Something that came together so easily, has stood the test of time. The song first appeared on the CBS coverage of the NCAA tournament in 1987 when Keith Smart hit the baseline jumper to lead the Indiana Hoosiers over the Syracuse Orangemen. (Link to the 1987 Championship Game)

I have included the lyrics below that perfectly capture that beautiful game of basketball and the thrill of competition. If you are a basketball fan, you must visit the website (CLICK HERE) to learn more about the history, listen to the various recordings of the song, and watch various interviews. Trust me, you will get lost reminiscing about the various tournaments that you have watched.
Enjoy!

One Shining Moment
Words & Music: David Barrett, Hodges Song Supply/ASCAP

The ball is tipped
and there you are
you’re running for your life
you’re a shooting star
And all the years
no one knows
just how hard you worked
but now it shows…
(in) ONE SHINING MOMENT, IT’S ALL ON THE LINE
ONE SHINING MOMENT, THERE FROZEN IN TIME

But time is short
and the road is long
​in the blinking of an eye
ah that moment’s gone
And when it’s done
win or lose
you always did your best
cuz inside you knew…
(that) ONE SHINING MOMENT, YOU REACHED DEEP INSIDE
ONE SHINING MOMENT, YOU KNEW YOU WERE ALIVE

Feel the beat of your heart
feel the wind in your face
it’s more than a contest
it’s more than a race…

And when it’s done
win or lose
you always did your best
cuz inside you knew…
(that) ONE SHINING MOMENT, YOU REACHED FOR THE SKY
ONE SHINING MOMENT, YOU KNEW
ONE SHINING MOMENT, YOU WERE WILLING TO TRY
ONE SHINING MOMENT….