Loyola Chicago Basketball: The Ultimate Game Day Guide
The Loyola Chicago Ramblers basketball team has become a household name in recent years, thanks to their Cinderella story in the 2018 NCAA Tournament. Led by Coach Porter Moser, the team has consistently punched above its weight, earning a spot in the Final Four and producing talented players who have gone on to successful careers in the NBA. For fans and newcomers alike, navigating the world of Loyola Chicago basketball can be overwhelming, especially on game day. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about the team, from its history and roster to its notable alumni and game-day essentials.
A Brief History of Loyola Chicago Basketball
Founded in 1907, the Loyola University Chicago men's basketball team has a rich history that spans over a century. The Ramblers have appeared in the NCAA Tournament a total of 33 times, with their most notable run coming in 2018 when they reached the Final Four as an 11th-seeded team. Under the leadership of Coach Porter Moser, who took over in 2011, the team has experienced a resurgence in success, winning two Missouri Valley Conference championships and making three NCAA Tournament appearances.
Notable Alumni
The Loyola Chicago basketball program has produced several talented players who have gone on to successful careers in the NBA. Some notable alumni include:
* Ben Ahearn (2007-2011): A 6'11" center who played for the Golden State Warriors and the Phoenix Suns.
* Aundre Phillips (2004-2008): A 6'6" forward who played for the Los Angeles Clippers.
* Cameron Krutwig (2018-2022): A 6'9" center who was drafted by the Utah Jazz and currently plays for the Memphis Hustle.
Coach Porter Moser has also been instrumental in developing players for the NBA, citing players like Cameron Krutwig and Aundre Phillips as prime examples of his coaching philosophy. "We're not just developing players for the game of basketball," Moser said in an interview. "We're developing them as individuals, preparing them for life after college. That's what gets me most excited."
Roster and Statistics
The Loyola Chicago men's basketball team competes in the Missouri Valley Conference and has a roster of talented players. Here are some key stats and roster information:
* Head Coach: Porter Moser
* Conference: Missouri Valley Conference
* Arena: Joseph J. Gentile Arena
* Capacity: 6,300
Some notable players on the current roster include:
* Cameron Brown (G, Sr.): A 6'4" guard who averages 11.4 points and 4.1 rebounds per game.
* Marcellus Nunkel (F, Jr.): A 6'7" forward who averages 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
* Eric Butler (G, So.): A 6'2" guard who averages 9.5 points and 3.2 assists per game.
Game-Day Essentials
Attending a Loyola Chicago basketball game is an experience like no other. Here are some game-day essentials to keep in mind:
* **Tickets**: Tickets can be purchased online through the Loyola Chicago Athletics website or at the Joseph J. Gentile Arena box office. Prices vary depending on the opponent and seating location.
* **Parking**: Parking is available in several lots around the arena, including the main lot located at 6510 N. Sheridan Rd.
* **Concessions**: The arena offers a variety of concessions, including hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos, and snacks.
* **Team Store**: The Loyola Chicago Team Store is located in the arena and offers a range of Ramblers merchandise, including jerseys, hats, and apparel.
NCAA Tournament Performance
The 2018 NCAA Tournament was a Cinderella story for the ages, with the Loyola Chicago Ramblers defying odds and expectations to reach the Final Four. Here are some highlights from that magical run:
* **First Round**: The Ramblers defeated Miami (FL) 64-62 in the first round, thanks to a clutch shot by Clayton Custer.
* **Second Round**: The Ramblers defeated Tennessee 63-62 in the second round, despite being down by 11 points with 7:30 remaining.
* **Sweet 16**: The Ramblers defeated Kansas State 78-62 in the Sweet 16, thanks to a dominant performance by Cameron Krutwig.
* **Elite 8**: The Ramblers fell to Michigan 69-57 in the Elite 8, but not before putting up a fight and earning the respect of their opponents.
Notable Games and Matchups
Some notable games and matchups on the Loyola Chicago basketball schedule include:
* **vs. Illinois**: The Ramblers face off against their in-state rivals, the Illinois Fighting Illini, on December 10.
* **vs. Drake**: The Ramblers host the Drake Bulldogs on February 15, in a matchup of Missouri Valley Conference contenders.
* **vs. Valparaiso**: The Ramblers face off against the Valparaiso Crusaders on March 5, in a battle for MVC supremacy.
Coaching Staff
The Loyola Chicago basketball coaching staff is comprised of experienced coaches who have a proven track record of success. Here are some key members of the coaching staff:
* **Head Coach**: Porter Moser (11th season)
* **Assistant Coach**: Tod Brown (4th season)
* **Assistant Coach**: Sean Dwyer (5th season)
* **Assistant Coach**: Eugene Blevins (3rd season)
Game-Day Traditions
Attending a Loyola Chicago basketball game is not just about watching the game – it's about being part of a community. Here are some game-day traditions to keep in mind:
* **The Ramblers' Fight Song**: The team takes the court to the tune of the Ramblers' Fight Song, a rousing anthem that gets the crowd on their feet.
* **The Alma Mater**: The team sings the Alma Mater after each game, a tradition that dates back to the 1920s.
* **The Post-Game Celebration**: The team celebrates their victories with a post-game ceremony, complete with music, confetti, and photo opportunities with fans.
Supporting the Team
As a fan, there are many ways to support the Loyola Chicago basketball team. Here are some suggestions:
* **Join the Ramblers' Boosters**: The Ramblers' Boosters is a group of dedicated fans who help support the team through fundraising and volunteer efforts.
* **Attend a Game**: Nothing beats the energy of a live game – attend a Ramblers' game to cheer on the team and experience the excitement of college basketball.
* **Make a Donation**: Consider making a donation to the Loyola Chicago Athletics Department to support the team and its mission.
In conclusion, Loyola Chicago basketball is a program on the rise, with a rich history, talented players, and a passionate fan base. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the program, this game-day guide has everything you need to know to get the most out of your Ramblers' experience.
