College basketball is one of the most popular sporting events in the United States, and it is no different in California. With a strong tradition of college athletics, California boasts some of the best teams in the country, including the California Baptist Lancers.
Located in Riverside, California, California Baptist University (CBU) is a private institution that has been competing in Division II athletics since 2000. However, in the fall of 2018, CBU made the jump to Division I NCAA status, joining the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). With this move, the school’s basketball program also moved up to the DI level and began competing against some of the best teams in the nation.
The California Baptist Lancers men's basketball team has been a force to be reckoned with ever since making the jump to Division I. In their first season, they finished with a record of 16-15 overall and 7-9 in conference play. The following season saw a huge jump in success, as they finished with an impressive 21-10 overall record and a 10-6 record in the WAC, securing a spot in the conference tournament.
The 2020-21 season was equally impressive, with the Lancers finishing with a record of 13-10 overall and 7-6 in the WAC. Despite the shortened season due to COVID-19, the team was able to show its potential once again, with standout performances from players like Ty Rowell, Elijah Thomas, and Gorjok Gak.
One of the reasons for their success has been the focus on recruiting top talent from around the world. Head coach Rick Croy and his staff have done an outstanding job bringing in players from all over the globe, including Australia, Canada, and England, to name a few. This diverse roster has helped create a unique playing style for the Lancers, incorporating different strategies and approaches to the game.
Beyond their on-court success, California Baptist’s basketball program has also shown its commitment to academic excellence. The team has consistently received recognition from the WAC for its academic achievements, including having numerous players receive All-Academic Team honors.
Overall, the California Baptist Lancers basketball program has quickly established itself as a strong force in the world of college basketball. With talented players, dedicated coaches, and a commitment to both athletic and academic success, they are poised to continue competing at a high level for years to come.