30 Facts About Xavier Basketball

Xavier Basketball: A Rich History

Xavier University, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, boasts a storied basketball program. Known for its competitive spirit and passionate fan base, Xavier Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and achievements.

1. Xavier's basketball program began in 1920, making it over a century old.
2. The team is known as the Musketeers, inspired by the school's mascot, D'Artagnan.
3. Xavier has made 28 NCAA Tournament appearances.
4. The Musketeers have reached the Elite Eight three times (2004, 2008, 2017).
5. Xavier has won 17 conference championships.
6. The team plays its home games at the Cintas Center, which opened in 2000.
7. The Cintas Center has a seating capacity of 10,250.
8. Xavier's biggest rival is the University of Cincinnati, and their games are known as the Crosstown Shootout.
9. The Musketeers have produced several NBA players, including David West and James Posey.
10. Xavier's first NCAA Tournament appearance was in 1961.

Memorable Moments and Milestones

Xavier Basketball has had its share of unforgettable moments. From buzzer-beaters to historic wins, these milestones have cemented the team's legacy.

11. In 1990, Xavier made its first Sweet 16 appearance.
12. The Musketeers' first Elite Eight appearance came in 2004 under coach Thad Matta.
13. In 2008, Xavier reached the Elite Eight again, this time under coach Sean Miller.
14. The 2017 season saw Xavier make another Elite Eight run, led by coach Chris Mack.
15. Xavier's longest winning streak is 16 games, achieved during the 2007-2008 season.
16. The Musketeers have been ranked in the AP Top 25 Poll multiple times, reaching as high as No. 3 in 2016.
17. In 2018, Xavier earned its first No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
18. The team has made 7 appearances in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT).
19. Xavier won the NIT Championship in 1958.
20. The Musketeers have a strong home-court advantage, with a winning percentage of over .800 at the Cintas Center.

Coaches and Players Who Made a Difference

Xavier's success can be attributed to the dedication and talent of its coaches and players. These individuals have left an indelible mark on the program.

21. Pete Gillen coached Xavier from 1985 to 1994, leading the team to seven NCAA Tournament appearances.
22. Thad Matta, who coached from 2001 to 2004, had a .788 winning percentage at Xavier.
23. Sean Miller, head coach from 2004 to 2009, led the Musketeers to four NCAA Tournaments.
24. Chris Mack, who coached from 2009 to 2018, is Xavier's all-time winningest coach with 215 victories.
25. David West, a two-time NBA All-Star, played for Xavier from 1999 to 2003.
26. James Posey, who won two NBA championships, played for Xavier from 1996 to 1999.
27. Byron Larkin, Xavier's all-time leading scorer, played from 1984 to 1988.
28. Trevon Bluiett, who scored over 2,000 points, played from 2014 to 2018.
29. Jordan Crawford, known for his scoring prowess, played for Xavier during the 2009-2010 season.
30. Edmond Sumner, now an NBA player, played for Xavier from 2014 to 2017.

Xavier Basketball's Legacy

Xavier Basketball's rich history is packed with memorable moments and remarkable achievements. From legendary players to historic wins, the team has consistently shown grit and determination. The Musketeers have not only made a name for themselves in the NCAA tournaments but also in the hearts of their fans. Their commitment to excellence and team spirit is evident in every game they play. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the sport, Xavier Basketball offers a thrilling experience. The team's journey is a testament to hard work, passion, and the love of the game. As they continue to build on their legacy, one thing is clear: Xavier Basketball is more than just a team; it's a tradition of excellence that inspires and excites. Keep an eye on them; the best is yet to come.