30 Facts About Richmond Basketball

Richmond Basketball: A Storied Tradition

Richmond Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments, legendary players, and significant achievements. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this beloved team.

1. Richmond Spiders: The team is known as the Richmond Spiders, a unique and memorable mascot in college basketball.

2. Founded in 1913: Richmond Basketball began in 1913, making it one of the older programs in the NCAA.

3. Robins Center: Home games are played at the Robins Center, which opened in 1972 and seats over 7,000 fans.

4. First NCAA Tournament: The Spiders made their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1984, marking a significant milestone for the program.

5. Sweet Sixteen: Richmond reached the Sweet Sixteen in 1988, defeating Indiana and Georgia Tech, which was a major upset at the time.

Legendary Coaches and Players

Richmond Basketball has been shaped by some incredible coaches and players who have left a lasting impact on the program.

6. Dick Tarrant: Coach Dick Tarrant led the team from 1981 to 1993, becoming the winningest coach in Richmond history.

7. Ken Atkinson: Former player Ken Atkinson went on to become an NBA head coach, showcasing the talent developed at Richmond.

8. Johnny Newman: Johnny Newman, a standout player in the 1980s, went on to have a successful NBA career.

9. Kevin Anderson: Kevin Anderson, a key player in the late 2000s, was named the Atlantic 10 Player of the Year in 2010.

10. Jacob Gilyard: Known for his defensive prowess, Jacob Gilyard set the NCAA record for career steals in 2021.

Memorable Games and Moments

Richmond Basketball has had its share of unforgettable games and moments that have thrilled fans and etched their place in history.

11. 1984 Upset: In 1984, Richmond upset Auburn in the NCAA Tournament, a game still remembered by fans.

12. 2004 Atlantic 10 Championship: The Spiders won the Atlantic 10 Championship in 2004, securing an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

13. 2011 Sweet Sixteen Run: Richmond made another Sweet Sixteen appearance in 2011, defeating Vanderbilt and Morehead State.

14. Beating Syracuse: In 1991, Richmond became the first #15 seed to defeat a #2 seed in the NCAA Tournament by beating Syracuse.

15. Triple-Overtime Thriller: In 2008, Richmond played a triple-overtime game against George Washington, one of the longest games in their history.

Community and Culture

Richmond Basketball is more than just a team; it's a community with a strong culture and dedicated fan base.

16. Spider Club: The Spider Club is the official booster club, supporting the team through fundraising and fan engagement.

17. Richmond Rowdies: The Richmond Rowdies are the passionate student section known for their spirited support during games.

18. Community Outreach: The team is involved in various community outreach programs, including youth basketball clinics and charity events.

19. Academic Excellence: Richmond players are known for their academic achievements, consistently earning high marks in the classroom.

20. Alumni Network: The program boasts a strong alumni network, with former players staying connected and supporting the team.

Records and Achievements

Richmond Basketball has set numerous records and achieved significant milestones over the years.

21. Most Wins in a Season: The 2010-2011 team set the record for most wins in a season with 29 victories.

22. NCAA Tournament Appearances: The Spiders have made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, showcasing their competitive consistency.

23. Conference Championships: Richmond has won multiple conference championships, including titles in the Colonial Athletic Association and Atlantic 10.

24. All-Time Leading Scorer: Johnny Newman holds the record for most points scored in a career at Richmond with 2,383 points.

25. Defensive Records: Jacob Gilyard's record for career steals is a testament to the team's emphasis on strong defense.

Future Prospects

The future looks bright for Richmond Basketball, with promising recruits and a dedicated coaching staff.

26. Chris Mooney: Head coach Chris Mooney has been leading the team since 2005, bringing stability and success to the program.

27. Top Recruits: The team continues to attract top recruits, ensuring a competitive roster for years to come.

28. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Recent upgrades to the Robins Center and practice facilities provide players with top-notch resources.

29. Strong Fan Support: The fan base remains loyal and enthusiastic, creating an electric atmosphere at home games.

30. Commitment to Excellence: Richmond Basketball's commitment to excellence both on and off the court promises continued success and growth.

Richmond Basketball: A Legacy of Passion

Richmond basketball isn't just a game; it's a tradition. From its humble beginnings to its current status, the team has always been about heart, dedication, and community. The Spiders have given fans countless memorable moments, from thrilling last-second shots to unforgettable tournament runs. Players and coaches alike have left their mark, creating a legacy that continues to inspire new generations. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer, there's something special about Richmond basketball that draws you in. It's more than just stats and scores; it's about the spirit and camaraderie that unite everyone involved. So next time you catch a game, remember you're part of a rich history that celebrates perseverance, teamwork, and the love of the sport. Richmond basketball is more than a pastime; it's a way of life.