25 Facts About Incarnate Word Basketball

History of Incarnate Word Basketball

Incarnate Word Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and achievements. Here are some fascinating facts about the team's journey through the years.

1. The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) was founded in 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas.

2. UIW's basketball program began in 1980, initially competing in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

3. The Cardinals transitioned to NCAA Division II in 1999, joining the Lone Star Conference.

4. In 2013, UIW made a significant leap to NCAA Division I, becoming a member of the Southland Conference.

Achievements and Milestones

The Cardinals have achieved numerous milestones that have shaped their legacy. Here are some notable accomplishments.

5. UIW's men's basketball team won its first conference championship in 1992 while still in the NAIA.

6. The women's team claimed their first conference title in 2006, competing in the Heartland Conference.

7. In 2014, the men's team achieved their first winning season in NCAA Division I, finishing with a 21-6 record.

8. The women's team made their first appearance in the Women's National Invitation Tournament (WNIT) in 2017.

Notable Players and Coaches

Several players and coaches have left an indelible mark on Incarnate Word Basketball. Here are some of the most influential figures.

9. Denzel Livingston, a standout guard, became the first UIW player to sign an NBA contract, joining the Houston Rockets in 2015.

10. Kyle Hittle, another prominent player, finished his career as the second all-time leading scorer in UIW history with 1,626 points.

11. Angela Lawson, head coach of the women's team from 2005 to 2019, led the Cardinals to multiple conference titles and postseason appearances.

12. Dr. Carson Cunningham, head coach of the men's team since 2018, has been instrumental in developing the program's competitive edge.

Memorable Games and Moments

Incarnate Word Basketball has experienced many unforgettable games and moments. Here are some highlights.

13. In 2013, the men's team defeated the University of Nebraska-Omaha in their first-ever NCAA Division I game.

14. The women's team secured a thrilling overtime victory against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in the 2016 Southland Conference Tournament.

15. In 2015, the men's team upset Princeton University, a perennial Ivy League powerhouse, with a 79-68 win.

16. The women's team achieved a historic win against the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2018, marking their first victory over a Division I opponent.

Community and Culture

Incarnate Word Basketball is deeply rooted in its community and culture. Here are some ways the program has made an impact.

17. The Cardinals regularly participate in community service projects, including youth basketball clinics and charity events.

18. UIW's annual "Pack the House" event encourages fans to fill the stands and support the team, creating an electric atmosphere.

19. The program emphasizes academic excellence, with numerous players earning Southland Conference All-Academic honors.

20. UIW's state-of-the-art McDermott Convocation Center, opened in 1989, serves as the home court for both the men's and women's teams.

Future Prospects

The future looks bright for Incarnate Word Basketball. Here are some exciting prospects and developments on the horizon.

21. The Cardinals are actively recruiting top talent from across the country to strengthen their roster.

22. UIW's investment in advanced training facilities and technology aims to enhance player development and performance.

23. The program's commitment to fostering a winning culture is evident in their strategic planning and coaching hires.

24. UIW's growing fan base and community support continue to drive the team's success and visibility.

25. The Cardinals are poised to make a significant impact in the Southland Conference and beyond, with aspirations of reaching the NCAA Tournament.

Final Whistle on Incarnate Word Basketball

Incarnate Word Basketball has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments. From its humble beginnings to its rise in the NCAA, the team has shown resilience and determination. Players have set records, coaches have inspired, and fans have cheered through every high and low. The program's commitment to excellence both on and off the court is evident in its academic successes and community involvement. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, there's always something exciting happening with Incarnate Word Basketball. Keep an eye on this team; their journey is far from over. With every game, they continue to write new chapters in their storied legacy. So, next time you catch a game, remember the passion and dedication that drive this incredible team forward. Here's to many more victories and unforgettable moments!