College basketball is one of the most highly revered sports in America. From power conferences like the ACC and Big Ten to Division II and III programs, there’s no shortage of talented athletes taking to the court each year. One team that has gained increased attention recently is the Colorado-Colorado Springs Mountain Lions basketball squad.
The Mountain Lions compete in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC), a Division II conference comprised of teams from Colorado, Nebraska, and New Mexico among others. While the RMAC may not receive as much attention as, say, the Big 12, it still produces some seriously impressive talent. In fact, several former RMAC players have gone on to enjoy successful careers in the NBA including Becky Hammon and Scott Brooks.
Colorado-Colorado Springs’ program is relatively young, having only started back in 1965. However, they’ve quickly established themselves as a team to watch in the RMAC, securing four conference championships since 2012. Additionally, the Mountain Lions have made three appearances in the NCAA Division II Tournament during that span, advancing as far as the Sweet Sixteen in 2013.
One reason for the Mountain Lions’ success is their coaching staff. Head Coach Jeff Culver took over the reins in 2010 and has done an excellent job of growing the program. Under his leadership, UCCS has won more games than any other RMAC team since 2011. Beyond that, he’s developed a keen eye for talent, bringing in top recruits like Derrick White, who was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in 2017.
Another factor that makes UCCS stand out is their commitment to teamwork. While some programs may rely on one or two star players to carry the load, the Mountain Lions emphasize a collaborative approach. Sure, they have standout performers like senior guard Padiet Wang, who led the team in scoring last season with 14.8 points per game. However, their success also stems from a deep roster of talented athletes who are all willing to contribute whenever called upon.
Of course, it’s not just about on-court talent. UCCS has also prioritized academic success, with the team boasting an impressive 3.36 cumulative GPA as of 2020. Several players have earned All-Academic honors from the RMAC, furthering the program’s reputation for excellence both on and off the court.
For fans of college basketball looking to expand their horizons beyond the major conferences, Colorado-Colorado Springs Mountain Lions basketball is definitely a team to keep an eye on. With a solid coaching staff, talented athletes, and a culture of teamwork and success, they’re well-positioned to continue making waves in Division II hoops.