30 Facts About Ole Miss Basketball

The Early Years of Ole Miss Basketball

Ole Miss Basketball has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Here are some fascinating facts about its beginnings.

1. The University of Mississippi, commonly known as Ole Miss, established its basketball program in 1908.
2. The first official game was played against Mississippi College, resulting in a 28-12 victory for Ole Miss.
3. The team was initially coached by C.R. Noble, who led them to a 4-1 record in their inaugural season.
4. In the early years, games were played in a small gymnasium known as "The Old Gym," which had a seating capacity of just a few hundred.

Memorable Moments

Ole Miss Basketball has had its share of unforgettable moments that have left a lasting impact on fans and players alike.

5. In 1981, Ole Miss won its first SEC Tournament Championship, defeating Georgia in the final.
6. The 1998-1999 season saw the Rebels reach the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 for the first time in school history.
7. In 2013, Ole Miss captured its second SEC Tournament Championship by defeating the Florida Gators.
8. The 2014-2015 season featured a thrilling comeback victory against BYU in the NCAA Tournament, overcoming a 17-point deficit.

Legendary Coaches

Coaches play a pivotal role in shaping a basketball program. Ole Miss has been fortunate to have some legendary figures at the helm.

9. Rod Barnes, who coached from 1998 to 2006, led the team to its first Sweet 16 appearance.
10. Andy Kennedy, the winningest coach in Ole Miss history, served from 2006 to 2018.
11. Kermit Davis took over in 2018 and led the team to an NCAA Tournament appearance in his first season.
12. Cob Jarvis, who coached from 1969 to 1976, is remembered for his innovative strategies and leadership.

Star Players

Ole Miss has produced numerous standout players who have made significant contributions to the program and beyond.

13. Johnny Neumann, who played from 1970 to 1971, set the single-season scoring record with 923 points.
14. Ansu Sesay, a forward from 1994 to 1998, was named SEC Player of the Year in 1998.
15. Marshall Henderson, known for his fiery personality, led the team to an SEC Tournament Championship in 2013.
16. Devontae Shuler, who played from 2017 to 2021, ranks among the top scorers in school history.

Facilities and Fan Experience

The facilities and fan experience at Ole Miss games contribute significantly to the program's success and popularity.

17. The Tad Smith Coliseum, also known as "The Tad Pad," served as the home court from 1966 to 2016.
18. The Pavilion at Ole Miss, a state-of-the-art arena, opened in 2016 and has a seating capacity of 9,500.
19. The student section, known as the "Rebel Rags," is famous for its enthusiastic support and creative chants.
20. The Pavilion features modern amenities, including luxury suites, a club level, and a large video board.

Rivalries and Traditions

Rivalries and traditions add excitement and intensity to Ole Miss Basketball games.

21. The rivalry with Mississippi State, known as the "Egg Bowl of Basketball," is one of the most heated in college sports.
22. The annual "Red and Blue Game" is a preseason scrimmage that allows fans to get a first look at the team.
23. The "Hotty Toddy" chant, a staple at Ole Miss sporting events, energizes the crowd and players alike.
24. The team often wears special uniforms for rivalry games and significant matchups.

Academic Achievements

Success on the court is important, but academic achievements are equally valued at Ole Miss.

25. The program has consistently maintained a high graduation rate among its players.
26. Several players have earned Academic All-SEC honors for their performance in the classroom.
27. The team participates in community service projects, emphasizing the importance of giving back.
28. Ole Miss offers academic support services to help student-athletes balance their studies and athletic commitments.

Recent Successes

In recent years, Ole Miss Basketball has continued to build on its storied history with notable achievements.

29. The 2018-2019 season saw the Rebels return to the NCAA Tournament under Coach Kermit Davis.
30. The team has consistently competed at a high level in the SEC, earning respect and recognition from peers and fans alike.

The Final Buzzer

Ole Miss Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and remarkable players. From its early days to recent triumphs, the team has shown resilience and passion. Notable players like Johnny Neumann and Marshall Henderson have left a lasting impact, while the team's achievements in the NCAA tournaments have brought pride to the university. The Pavilion at Ole Miss stands as a testament to the program's growth and commitment to excellence. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, there's always something exciting about Ole Miss Basketball. Keep an eye on the Rebels as they continue to make history on the court. The journey of Ole Miss Basketball is far from over, and the future looks bright for this storied program.