30 Facts About Wichita State Basketball

The Early Years

Wichita State Basketball has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. Here are some fascinating facts about the beginnings of this storied program.

1. Wichita State University, originally known as Fairmount College, started its basketball program in 1906.
2. The team was initially called the "Shockers" because students used to earn money by shocking, or harvesting, wheat.
3. In 1921, the team played its first game against a major opponent, the University of Kansas, marking the start of a long-standing rivalry.

Memorable Seasons

Wichita State has had several standout seasons that have left a lasting impression on college basketball.

4. The 1964-65 season saw the Shockers reach the Final Four for the first time in school history.
5. In 1981, Wichita State made it to the Elite Eight, led by future NBA star Antoine Carr.
6. The 2012-13 season was historic as the Shockers reached the Final Four again, defeating top-seeded Gonzaga along the way.
7. The 2013-14 team went undefeated in the regular season, finishing with a perfect 31-0 record.

Legendary Coaches

Coaching has played a crucial role in shaping Wichita State Basketball into what it is today.

8. Ralph Miller, who coached from 1951 to 1964, is considered one of the greatest coaches in school history.
9. Gene Smithson led the team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances in the 1980s.
10. Mark Turgeon revitalized the program in the early 2000s, leading the Shockers to the Sweet 16 in 2006.
11. Gregg Marshall, who coached from 2007 to 2020, is the winningest coach in Wichita State history.

Iconic Players

Wichita State has produced several players who have made significant impacts both in college and professionally.

12. Xavier McDaniel, who played from 1981 to 1985, was the first player in NCAA history to lead the nation in both scoring and rebounding in the same season.
13. Antoine Carr, known as "The Big Dog," was a dominant force in the early 1980s.
14. Fred VanVleet, a key player in the 2013 Final Four run, went on to have a successful NBA career with the Toronto Raptors.
15. Ron Baker, another standout from the 2013-14 team, also made it to the NBA, playing for the New York Knicks.

Home Court Advantage

The Shockers have a formidable home court that has witnessed many memorable moments.

16. Charles Koch Arena, known as "The Roundhouse," has been the home of Wichita State Basketball since 1955.
17. The arena underwent a major renovation in 2003, adding modern amenities while preserving its historic charm.
18. The Shockers have one of the best home court winning percentages in college basketball.
19. The student section, known as "The Shocker Sound," is famous for its enthusiastic support.

Rivalries and Big Games

Rivalries and significant games have added to the excitement of Wichita State Basketball.

20. The rivalry with Kansas State, known as the "Sunflower Showdown," is one of the most intense in the state.
21. Wichita State's victory over Indiana in the 2015 NCAA Tournament is considered one of the biggest upsets in school history.
22. The Shockers have a heated rivalry with Creighton, which dates back to their days in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Community and Culture

The culture and community surrounding Wichita State Basketball are unique and vibrant.

23. The "WuShock" mascot, a muscular, wheat-shocking figure, is one of the most recognizable in college sports.
24. The team is deeply ingrained in the Wichita community, with strong local support and fan engagement.
25. Wichita State Basketball games are known for their electric atmosphere, drawing fans from all over Kansas.

Recent Success

In recent years, Wichita State has continued to build on its storied legacy.

26. The Shockers joined the American Athletic Conference in 2017, elevating their level of competition.
27. In 2019, Wichita State made it to the NIT semifinals, showcasing their resilience and talent.
28. The 2020-21 season saw the Shockers win the AAC regular-season title, further cementing their status as a powerhouse.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Wichita State Basketball.

29. The Shockers have appeared in over 15 NCAA Tournaments, making them one of the most consistent programs in college basketball.
30. Wichita State has produced multiple NBA players, including Cleanthony Early and Landry Shamet, who have made significant impacts in the league.

Wichita State Basketball: A Legacy of Excellence

Wichita State Basketball has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments. From legendary players to historic victories, the Shockers have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the court. Their dedication and passion for the game have made them a force to be reckoned with in college basketball.

The program's commitment to excellence is evident in their numerous conference titles, NCAA tournament appearances, and memorable upsets. The support from their loyal fans and the community has played a crucial role in their success, creating an electric atmosphere at every game.

As the Shockers continue to build on their legacy, one thing is clear: Wichita State Basketball is more than just a team; it's a tradition of excellence that will inspire future generations of players and fans alike.