30 Facts About DePaul Basketball

The Early Years of DePaul Basketball

DePaul University has a rich history in basketball, dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some fascinating facts about the origins and early years of DePaul Basketball.

1. DePaul's basketball program began in 1923, making it one of the oldest in the country.
2. The team was initially coached by Frank Haggerty, who led them to a 7-6 record in their first season.
3. DePaul's first home games were played at the DePaul Academy, a high school gymnasium.
4. The team quickly gained a reputation for strong defense and fast-paced play.
5. In 1938, DePaul joined the National Invitation Tournament (NIT), one of the most prestigious college basketball tournaments at the time.

The Ray Meyer Era

Ray Meyer is a legendary figure in DePaul basketball history. His tenure as head coach brought unprecedented success to the program.

6. Ray Meyer became head coach in 1942 and remained in that position for 42 years.
7. Under Meyer's leadership, DePaul made 21 postseason appearances.
8. Meyer coached DePaul to the NCAA Final Four in 1943, just his second year as head coach.
9. He was known for his ability to develop players, including future NBA stars.
10. Meyer retired in 1984 with a career record of 724-354.

Memorable Players

DePaul has produced many outstanding players who have left a lasting impact on the game of basketball.

11. George Mikan, often considered the first dominant big man in basketball, played for DePaul from 1942 to 1946.
12. Mikan led DePaul to the NIT championship in 1945, earning MVP honors.
13. Mark Aguirre, another DePaul legend, played from 1978 to 1981 and was a two-time All-American.
14. Aguirre was the first overall pick in the 1981 NBA Draft, selected by the Dallas Mavericks.
15. Terry Cummings, who played from 1979 to 1982, was also a first-round NBA Draft pick and had a successful professional career.

Historic Games and Achievements

DePaul has been part of many historic games and has achieved significant milestones over the years.

16. In 1978, DePaul defeated Louisville in the NCAA tournament, a game considered one of the greatest upsets in college basketball history.
17. The 1978-79 season saw DePaul reach the Final Four, led by Mark Aguirre.
18. DePaul has made 22 NCAA tournament appearances, with their most recent in 2004.
19. The team has won 16 conference championships throughout its history.
20. DePaul's longest winning streak is 18 games, achieved during the 1983-84 season.

Modern Era and Recent Developments

The modern era of DePaul basketball has seen its share of ups and downs, but the program continues to strive for excellence.

21. In 2010, DePaul joined the Big East Conference, one of the most competitive in college basketball.
22. The team plays its home games at Wintrust Arena, a state-of-the-art facility opened in 2017.
23. DePaul's women's basketball team has also been highly successful, making multiple NCAA tournament appearances.
24. The men's team has produced several recent NBA players, including Wilson Chandler and Max Strus.
25. DePaul's current head coach, Tony Stubblefield, was hired in 2021 and aims to return the program to national prominence.

Community and Cultural Impact

DePaul basketball has had a significant impact on the community and culture of Chicago.

26. The team has a strong fan base, known for their passionate support.
27. DePaul basketball games are a major event in Chicago, drawing large crowds and media attention.
28. The program has a long-standing tradition of community service, including youth basketball clinics and charity events.
29. DePaul's success has inspired many young athletes in Chicago to pursue basketball.
30. The team's history and achievements are celebrated in the DePaul Athletics Hall of Fame, located on campus.

Final Whistle on DePaul Basketball Facts

DePaul Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and legendary players. From its early days to its current status, the team has seen ups and downs, but the Blue Demons have always shown resilience. Ray Meyer, the iconic coach, left an indelible mark, guiding the team to numerous victories. The Allstate Arena has been a fortress for the team, witnessing countless thrilling games. Players like Mark Aguirre and Terry Cummings have become household names, making significant contributions to the sport. The team's commitment to excellence and community engagement continues to inspire fans. Whether you're a long-time supporter or new to the game, DePaul Basketball's legacy offers something for everyone. Keep these facts in mind next time you catch a game or discuss college basketball history. The Blue Demons' story is one of passion, perseverance, and pride.