25 Facts About Sacramento State Hornets Basketball

Sacramento State Hornets Basketball: A Brief Overview

The Sacramento State Hornets basketball team has a rich history filled with memorable moments and standout players. Here are some fascinating facts about this team that you might not know.

Early Beginnings

The Sacramento State Hornets basketball team has roots that go back several decades. Let's dive into some of the early history.

1. The team was established in 1948, making it one of the older programs in college basketball.
2. Sacramento State played its first season in 1948-49, competing as an independent team.
3. In the early years, the team played its home games at the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium.

Conference Affiliations

Over the years, the Hornets have been part of various conferences. Each affiliation brought new challenges and opportunities.

4. The Hornets joined the Far Western Conference in 1953.
5. In 1996, Sacramento State became a member of the Big Sky Conference, where they still compete today.
6. The team has also been part of the NCAA Division I since 1991.

Memorable Seasons

Certain seasons stand out in the history of Sacramento State basketball. These years brought significant achievements and milestones.

7. The 1987-88 season was particularly notable, as the team finished with a 22-8 record.
8. In 2014-15, the Hornets achieved their first 20-win season in Division I history.
9. The 2014-15 season also saw the team make its first appearance in the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament (CIT).

Notable Players

Several players have left a lasting impact on the Sacramento State basketball program. Here are a few who made significant contributions.

10. Jameel Pugh, known for his incredible dunking ability, played for the Hornets from 2003 to 2005.
11. Loren Leath, who played from 2005 to 2009, is one of the top scorers in the program's history.
12. John Dickson, who played from 2009 to 2013, ranks among the top in several statistical categories for the Hornets.

Coaching Legends

Coaches play a crucial role in shaping a team's success. Sacramento State has had its share of influential coaches.

13. Brian Katz, who took over in 2008, is one of the most successful coaches in the program's history.
14. Jerome Jenkins, who coached from 2000 to 2008, helped transition the team into the Big Sky Conference.
15. Gus Cervetti, who coached in the 1950s, led the team to multiple successful seasons in the Far Western Conference.

Home Court Advantage

The Hornets have called several places home over the years. Each venue has its own unique history.

16. The Hornets currently play their home games at The Nest, officially known as the Hornets Nest.
17. The Nest has a seating capacity of 1,012, making it one of the more intimate venues in college basketball.
18. Before moving to The Nest, the team played at the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium and the Hornet Gym.

Rivalries and Competitions

Rivalries add excitement and intensity to the game. Sacramento State has its share of fierce competitors.

19. The Hornets have a notable rivalry with UC Davis, known as the Causeway Classic.
20. Games against Montana and Montana State are often highly competitive, given their shared Big Sky Conference affiliation.
21. The team also has a budding rivalry with Portland State, another Big Sky Conference member.

Community and Fan Support

The Sacramento State Hornets basketball team enjoys strong support from its community and fans.

22. The Green Army is the official student section, known for its enthusiastic support during games.
23. Alumni and local fans frequently attend games, creating a vibrant atmosphere at The Nest.
24. The team participates in various community outreach programs, fostering a strong connection with local residents.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the Sacramento State Hornets basketball team has a promising future.

25. With a mix of experienced players and talented recruits, the team aims to build on its recent successes and achieve new milestones in the coming seasons.

Final Buzzer

Sacramento State Hornets basketball has a rich history filled with exciting moments and remarkable achievements. From their humble beginnings to becoming a competitive force, the Hornets have shown resilience and passion. Key players have left their mark, and memorable games have kept fans on the edge of their seats. The team’s dedication to excellence is evident in their continuous growth and commitment to the sport. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer, there’s always something fascinating to learn about this team. Keep an eye on the Hornets as they continue to make strides in college basketball. Their journey is far from over, and the future holds even more exciting chapters. Stay tuned, cheer loud, and support the Hornets as they aim for new heights.