30 Facts About Eastern Illinois Basketball

Eastern Illinois Basketball: A Rich History

Eastern Illinois University (EIU) has a storied basketball program that has seen its fair share of ups and downs. From memorable games to standout players, EIU basketball has a lot to offer. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this program.

1. Founded in 1899
   Eastern Illinois University was established in 1899, and basketball has been a part of its athletic program almost since the beginning.

2. First Basketball Team in 1908
   The first men's basketball team at EIU was formed in 1908, making it one of the oldest programs in the state of Illinois.

3. Lantz Arena
   Lantz Arena, the home court for EIU basketball, opened in 1967. It has a seating capacity of 5,300.

4. First NCAA Tournament Appearance in 1992
   EIU made its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1992, a milestone that put the program on the national map.

5. Three NCAA Tournament Appearances
   The Panthers have appeared in the NCAA Tournament three times: 1992, 2001, and 2010.

Memorable Players and Coaches

The program has been graced by some remarkable talents over the years. Here are a few names that stand out.

6. Kevin Duckworth
   Kevin Duckworth, a two-time NBA All-Star, played for EIU from 1983 to 1986. He went on to have a successful career in the NBA.

7. Henry Domercant
   Henry Domercant is EIU's all-time leading scorer with 2,602 points. He played from 1999 to 2003 and had a successful career overseas.

8. Jay Spoonhour
   Jay Spoonhour, son of legendary coach Charlie Spoonhour, served as the head coach from 2012 to 2021.

9. Rick Samuels
   Rick Samuels was the head coach from 1980 to 2005, making him the longest-serving coach in EIU basketball history.

10. Kyle Hill
    Kyle Hill, who played from 1997 to 2001, was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2001 NBA Draft.

Significant Games and Seasons

Certain games and seasons have left a lasting impact on the program. Here are some highlights.

11. 1992 NCAA Tournament Game
    In their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1992, EIU faced Indiana University, coached by the legendary Bob Knight.

12. 2001 NCAA Tournament Game
    In 2001, EIU played against Arizona in the NCAA Tournament, a game that remains memorable for its intensity.

13. 2010 NCAA Tournament Game
    The 2010 NCAA Tournament saw EIU face off against Kansas, one of the top teams in the nation.

14. 1981-82 Season
    The 1981-82 season was one of the best in EIU history, with the team finishing with a 20-9 record.

15. 2000-01 Season
    The 2000-01 season was another standout, culminating in an NCAA Tournament appearance.

Records and Achievements

EIU basketball has set numerous records and achieved significant milestones over the years.

16. Most Wins in a Season
    The 1981-82 team holds the record for most wins in a season with 20 victories.

17. Longest Winning Streak
    The longest winning streak in program history is 12 games, achieved during the 1981-82 season.

18. Most Points in a Game
    The record for most points scored in a single game is 55, set by Henry Domercant in 2002.

19. Most Rebounds in a Game
    Kevin Duckworth holds the record for most rebounds in a game with 25, achieved in 1986.

20. Most Assists in a Game
    The record for most assists in a game is 15, set by Jon Collins in 1983.

Community and Culture

EIU basketball is not just about the games; it's also about the community and culture that surround it.

21. Panther Nation
    The fan base, known as Panther Nation, is incredibly passionate and supportive, making Lantz Arena a tough place for opponents.

22. Annual Blue Madness
    Blue Madness is an annual event that kicks off the basketball season, featuring player introductions, scrimmages, and fan activities.

23. Alumni Support
    Former players often return to campus for games and events, fostering a strong sense of community.

24. Charity Work
    The team is actively involved in charity work, participating in events like food drives and youth basketball clinics.

25. Academic Excellence
    Many players have excelled academically, earning spots on the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Academic Honor Roll.

Future Prospects

The future looks bright for EIU basketball, with new talents and opportunities on the horizon.

26. New Head Coach
    Marty Simmons was named head coach in 2021, bringing a fresh perspective to the program.

27. Recruiting Success
    Recent recruiting classes have been highly rated, promising a competitive future for the team.

28. Facility Upgrades
    Plans are in place for upgrading Lantz Arena, enhancing the experience for players and fans alike.

29. Increased Media Coverage
    With more games being televised, EIU basketball is gaining increased visibility.

30. Community Engagement
    The program is focusing on increasing community engagement, aiming to build an even stronger fan base.

The Final Buzzer

Eastern Illinois Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments, standout players, and impressive achievements. From their humble beginnings to their rise in the NCAA, the team has shown resilience and determination. Fans have witnessed thrilling games, celebrated victories, and supported the Panthers through thick and thin. The program's commitment to excellence is evident in their continuous efforts to recruit talented players and improve their facilities. As the team looks to the future, there's no doubt that Eastern Illinois Basketball will continue to be a source of pride and excitement for the university and its supporters. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, the Panthers' journey offers plenty of reasons to cheer. Keep an eye on this team; their story is far from over. Here's to more slam dunks, buzzer-beaters, and unforgettable seasons ahead!