30 Facts About Georgia Tech Basketball

The Early Years

Georgia Tech Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and legendary players. Here are some fascinating facts about the early years of this storied program.

1. Georgia Tech's basketball program began in 1906, making it one of the oldest in the country.
2. The team was initially known as the "Engineers" before adopting the "Yellow Jackets" nickname.
3. The first official game was played against Auburn, resulting in a 24-20 loss.
4. In the early days, games were played on an outdoor court, which was quite common at the time.
5. The team joined the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAA) in 1921, marking its first foray into organized conference play.

Rise to Prominence

The program saw significant growth and success in the mid-20th century, establishing itself as a force to be reckoned with.

6. Georgia Tech joined the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 1932, where it competed until 1964.
7. The team won its first SEC Championship in 1938, a milestone achievement.
8. In 1955, Georgia Tech made its first NCAA Tournament appearance.
9. The team reached the NCAA Final Four for the first time in 1990 under Coach Bobby Cremins.
10. Georgia Tech has produced numerous NBA players, including Hall of Famer Chris Bosh.

Coaching Legends

Coaching has played a pivotal role in shaping Georgia Tech Basketball into what it is today.

11. Bobby Cremins coached the team from 1981 to 2000, leading them to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances.
12. Paul Hewitt took over in 2000 and led the team to the NCAA Championship game in 2004.
13. Current head coach Josh Pastner has continued the tradition of excellence, guiding the team to an ACC Championship in 2021.
14. Cremins was named ACC Coach of the Year three times during his tenure.
15. Hewitt was also recognized as ACC Coach of the Year in 2001.

Memorable Players

Georgia Tech has been home to some of the most talented players in college basketball history.

16. Mark Price, a standout point guard, played from 1982 to 1986 and went on to have a successful NBA career.
17. Kenny Anderson, another legendary point guard, played for Georgia Tech from 1989 to 1991.
18. Chris Bosh, who played for the Yellow Jackets in 2002-2003, was a key player before entering the NBA.
19. Dennis Scott, known for his sharpshooting, played from 1987 to 1990 and was a first-round NBA draft pick.
20. Thaddeus Young, who played in the 2006-2007 season, has had a long and productive NBA career.

Historic Games

Certain games have left an indelible mark on the program's history.

21. The 1990 NCAA Tournament run to the Final Four remains one of the most celebrated achievements.
22. In 2004, Georgia Tech defeated Oklahoma State to reach the NCAA Championship game.
23. The 2021 ACC Championship victory over Florida State was a significant milestone for the program.
24. A thrilling double-overtime win against Duke in 1993 is still talked about by fans.
25. The 1985 victory over North Carolina, led by Mark Price, is considered one of the greatest upsets in school history.

Modern Era

The modern era has seen Georgia Tech continue to build on its storied legacy.

26. The team moved to the McCamish Pavilion in 2012, a state-of-the-art facility.
27. Georgia Tech has consistently been competitive in the ACC, one of the toughest conferences in college basketball.
28. The program emphasizes both athletic and academic excellence, with numerous players earning academic honors.
29. Georgia Tech's rivalry with the University of Georgia remains one of the most intense in college sports.
30. The future looks bright, with a strong recruiting class and a dedicated coaching staff poised for continued success.

Georgia Tech Basketball: A Legacy of Excellence

Georgia Tech Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and remarkable achievements. From legendary players like Mark Price and Chris Bosh to iconic coaches such as Bobby Cremins, the program has consistently been a force in college basketball. The team's dedication to excellence is evident in their numerous NCAA tournament appearances and ACC championships.

Innovative strategies and a commitment to developing talent have kept Georgia Tech competitive on the national stage. The program's impact extends beyond the court, fostering a sense of community and school spirit among students and alumni.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, Georgia Tech Basketball offers a compelling and inspiring story. Their legacy continues to grow, promising even more exciting chapters in the years to come.