25 Facts About North Carolina A&T Basketball

North Carolina A&T Basketball: A Storied Program

North Carolina A&T Basketball has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements, legendary players, and unforgettable moments. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this storied program.

1. Founded in 1909
   North Carolina A&T's basketball program began in 1909, making it one of the oldest in the country. Over the years, it has grown into a powerhouse in college basketball.

2. First Championship in 1958
   The Aggies won their first CIAA Championship in 1958. This victory marked the beginning of their dominance in the conference.

3. MEAC Dominance
   Since joining the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) in 1970, North Carolina A&T has won 16 conference championships, the most in MEAC history.

4. NCAA Tournament Appearances
   The Aggies have made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. Their first was in 1982, and they have continued to be a competitive force in college basketball.

5. Historic 1984 Season
   In 1984, North Carolina A&T achieved a school-record 24 wins. This season remains one of the most successful in the program's history.

Legendary Players and Coaches

North Carolina A&T has produced some incredible talent over the years. Let's take a look at some of the standout players and coaches who have left their mark on the program.

6. Al Attles
   Al Attles, a former Aggie, went on to have a successful NBA career and later became a legendary coach for the Golden State Warriors.

7. Joe Binion
   Joe Binion, another standout player, was a dominant force in the 1980s. He remains one of the top scorers in Aggie history.

8. Don Corbett
   Coach Don Corbett led the Aggies to seven consecutive MEAC titles from 1982 to 1988. His leadership and coaching prowess are still celebrated today.

9. Sam Jones
   Sam Jones, a Hall of Famer, played for the Aggies before embarking on a stellar NBA career with the Boston Celtics.

10. Bruce Jenkins
    Bruce Jenkins, known for his defensive skills, was a key player in the Aggies' success during the 1970s.

Memorable Moments

The history of North Carolina A&T Basketball is filled with unforgettable moments that have left a lasting impact on fans and players alike.

11. 1982 NCAA Tournament Win
    In 1982, the Aggies secured their first NCAA Tournament win against the University of Alabama. This victory put them on the national map.

12. Upset Over DePaul in 1988
    One of the most memorable upsets in program history occurred in 1988 when the Aggies defeated DePaul, a top-ranked team at the time.

13. First MEAC Championship in 1972
    The Aggies won their first MEAC Championship in 1972, setting the stage for future successes in the conference.

14. Historic Rivalry with North Carolina Central
    The rivalry between North Carolina A&T and North Carolina Central is one of the most intense in college basketball. Their matchups are always highly anticipated.

15. 2009 MEAC Championship
    In 2009, the Aggies won the MEAC Championship, ending a 14-year drought and earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

Community and Impact

North Carolina A&T Basketball has had a significant impact on the community and beyond. Here are some ways the program has made a difference.

16. Community Outreach Programs
    The Aggies are known for their community outreach programs, which include youth basketball clinics and charity events.

17. Academic Excellence
    North Carolina A&T places a strong emphasis on academic success. Many players have gone on to achieve great things off the court.

18. Alumni Support
    The program has a strong network of alumni who continue to support the team through donations and mentorship.

19. Diverse Coaching Staff
    The coaching staff at North Carolina A&T is known for its diversity, reflecting the inclusive values of the university.

20. Fan Engagement
    The Aggies have a passionate fan base that supports the team through thick and thin. Home games are always a lively affair.

Recent Successes

In recent years, North Carolina A&T Basketball has continued to build on its legacy with impressive performances and achievements.

21. 2013 NCAA Tournament Appearance
    The Aggies made a memorable run in the 2013 NCAA Tournament, winning their first-round game against Liberty University.

22. 2018 MEAC Championship
    In 2018, the Aggies won the MEAC Championship, adding another title to their impressive collection.

23. New Arena in 2011
    The Corbett Sports Center, the home of Aggies basketball, underwent significant renovations in 2011, providing state-of-the-art facilities for players and fans.

24. Player Development
    The program is known for its focus on player development, helping athletes reach their full potential both on and off the court.

25. Future Prospects
    With a strong recruiting pipeline and a commitment to excellence, the future looks bright for North Carolina A&T Basketball.

Final Thoughts on North Carolina A&T Basketball

North Carolina A&T Basketball has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments. From legendary players to historic victories, the program has left an indelible mark on college basketball. The Aggies' dedication to excellence and community has fostered a loyal fan base and a strong sense of pride. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, there's always something exciting happening with North Carolina A&T Basketball. Keep an eye on this team as they continue to make strides and build on their legacy. With a bright future ahead, the Aggies are sure to provide plenty of thrilling games and inspiring stories. Stay tuned and support the team as they aim for even greater heights.