College basketball is dominated by high-major programs with deep pockets, recruiting pipelines, and access to top-tier talent. Smaller schools have still found ways to compete and often beat the giants. With modest enrollments and limited budgets, these programs built contenders by spotting overlooked players and developing them into stars at both the college and professional levels. Several mid-major teams have reached the Final Four, some have played for championships, and a select few have won it all.
Defining a mid-major is not simple. UNLV qualifies even with a current enrollment of about 36,000 students. In most cases, mid-majors are schools with fewer than 20,000 students and without the financial or athletic resources of power-conference universities. Many are smaller public schools or Catholic universities, which stand in sharp contrast to schools like Indiana with more than 50,000 students or Texas with over 70,000.
1) 1956-1957 USF (29-0)
Head Coach: Phil Woolpert
League: Mens California Basketball Association
Starting Lineup: Hal Perry, K.C. Jones (NBA), Carl Boldt (NBA), Mike Farmer (NBA), Bill Russell (NBA)
Bench: Gene Brown (NBA), Warren Baxter, Bill Mallen
Point Differential:
NCAA Tournament Finish: Back 2 Back NCAA Champion
The University of San Francisco set the standard for mid-major excellence with back-to-back national championships in 1955 and 1956. The Dons went 28–1 in 1956 and a perfect 29–0 in 1957, powered by arguably the greatest college basketball player of all time: Bill Russell.
Russell was a two-time All-American who anchored a 60-game winning streak that included 55 straight victories. He was named NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player in 1955 and West Coast Conference Player of the Year in 1956. That same year, he also captured Olympic gold at the Melbourne Games.
Overlooked by most recruiters despite being an All-Conference high school player, Russell accepted his only scholarship offer from USF. On the Hilltop, his talent flourished. Combining the quickness of a guard with the size of a center, he revolutionized the game with his rebounding, shot blocking, and defensive dominance. He averaged 20.7 points and 20.3 rebounds per game in his USF career, finishing with 1,606 total rebounds.
Legendary UCLA coach John Wooden described him as “the greatest defensive man” he had ever seen. Former teammate Bill Bush echoed the same sentiment:
“There has never been a better defensive player in the history of basketball. He was strong-willed, a fierce competitor, and didn’t back down from anybody. I can’t remember ever playing with Russell and thinking we’d lose a game.”
The 1955–1957 USF Dons remain not just one of the most dominant teams in mid major basketball history, but one of the most dominant teams in college basketball history.
2) 1989-1990 UNLV (35-5)
Head Coach: Jerry Tarkanian
League: Mens California Basketball Association
Starting Lineup: Greg Anthony (NBA), Anderson Hunt, Stacey Augmon (NBA), Larry Johnson (NBA), David Butler
Bench: Travis Bice, Barry Young, Chris Jeter, Moses Scurry
NCAA Tournament Finish: NCAA Champion
The 1990 UNLV Runnin’ Rebels remain one of the most dominant teams in NCAA history. Hall of Fame coach Jerry Tarkanian built a roster around three future first-round NBA draft picks: Larry Johnson, Stacey Augmon, and Greg Anthony.
Larry Johnson averaged 20 points and 11 rebounds per game, overwhelming opponents with power and quickness. Stacey Augmon, known as “The Plastic Man,” added 14 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists. Greg Anthony controlled the offense as the floor general, while Anderson Hunt stepped up in the tournament and was named Final Four Most Outstanding Player.
UNLV won the national championship in convincing fashion. The Rebels defeated Duke by 30 points in the title game, the largest margin of victory in NCAA championship history. Across six tournament games, UNLV scored 571 points, the most ever by a single team in one NCAA tournament. Their total margin of victory was 112 points, the fifth-largest in tournament history.
The program also made an impact off the court. Alongside Georgetown in the early 1980s and Michigan’s Fab Five in the early 1990s, UNLV influenced basketball culture and style. The energy around the team gave Las Vegas its most exciting era in college sports.
The Rebels finished the season 35–5 and carried their dominance into the following year, starting 34–0 before losing to Duke in the 1991 Final Four. The 1990 championship team stands as the greatest in school history and one of the most important in college basketball.
Just like the University of San Francisco before them UNLV had the chance to go Back-2-Back, they only came up one game short.
3) 1965-1966 Texas Western (28-1)
Head Coach: Don Haskins
League: Independent
Starting Lineup: Willie Worsley (NBA), Bobby Joe Hill, Harry Flournoy, Dave Lattin "Big Daddy" (NBA), Nevel Shed
Bench: Willie Cager (NBA), Orsten Artis
NCAA Tournament Finish: NCAA Champion
The 1965–66 Texas Western Miners made history by becoming the first team with an all-Black starting lineup to win the NCAA championship. Coached by Don Haskins, the Miners finished the season 28–1, with their only loss a two-point road defeat to Seattle. They outscored opponents by an average of 15.2 points per game.
On March 19, 1966, the Miners defeated Adolph Rupp’s all-white Kentucky Wildcats 72–65 in the title game at Cole Field House in College Park, Maryland. The victory marked one of the most important moments in college basketball and American sports history.
The team was led by 6’9” center Dave “Big Daddy” Lattin, who went on to become a top-ten NBA draft pick. Texas Western also had depth, with Willie Worsley, Bobby Joe Hill, Harry Flournoy, Nevil Shed, Willie Cager, and Orsten Artis all contributing to the championship run.
The Miners faced discrimination throughout the season and after their title. When they won the championship, no ladder was provided for them to cut down the net. Nevil Shed lifted Willie Worsley so they could complete the tradition themselves. Unlike other champions, the team was not invited to appear on The Ed Sullivan Show. Their success played a role in the desegregation of college athletics, including the SEC, which saw its first Black basketball player in 1967.
From a professional standpoint, only Dave Lattin had a significant pro career. He was drafted by the San Francisco Warriors in 1967, later joined the Phoenix Suns, and then played several years in the ABA with the Pittsburgh Condors and Memphis Tams. Willie Worsley also briefly played in the ABA with the New York Nets. Willie Cager and Nevil Shed were drafted into the NBA but did not play in the league.
The 1966 Texas Western Miners remain one of the most influential teams in college basketball history, both for their success on the court and their lasting impact on the sport.
4) 1976-1977 Marquette (25-7)
Head Coach: Al McGuire
League: Independent
Starting Lineup: Butch Lee (NBA), Gary Rosenberger, Jim Boylan, Bo Ellis (NBA), Jerome Whitehead (NBA)
Bench: Bernard Toone (NBA), Ulice Payne
NCAA Tournament Finish: NCAA Champion
The 1976–77 Marquette Warriors delivered the program’s first and only national championship under head coach Al McGuire, who retired immediately after the season. The team finished 25–7, ranked seventh in the final AP poll, and made a memorable run through the NCAA Tournament.
Marquette defeated Cincinnati, Kansas State, and Wake Forest to reach the Final Four, then advanced to the title game with one of the most famous plays in program history. In the national semifinal against UNC Charlotte, the 49ers tied the game at 49 with three seconds left. Butch Lee inbounded a full-court pass that Jerome Whitehead gathered and converted at the buzzer to seal a 51–49 win. In the championship game, Marquette beat North Carolina 67–59 to secure the title.
Butch Lee led the team in scoring at 19.6 points per game and was named the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player. Bo Ellis added leadership, rebounding, and design influence. Ellis, a fashion design enthusiast, created Marquette’s now-famous “untucked” jerseys. The uniforms were considered revolutionary at the time because basketball jerseys were always worn tucked in. While later banned, the “untucked” look became a lasting symbol of the 1977 title team.
The roster produced multiple future NBA players, including Lee, Ellis, Whitehead, and Toone. The combination of talent, toughness, and McGuire’s leadership delivered one of the most memorable championship runs in NCAA history.
5) 2007-2008 Memphis (38-2)
Head Coach: John Calapari
League: Conference USA
Starting Lineup: Derrick Rose (NBA), Antonio Anderson (NBA), Chris Douglas-Roberts (NBA), Robert Dozier, Joey Dorsey (NBA)
Bench: Willie Kemp, Andre Allen, Doneal Mack, Shawn Taggart
NCAA Tournament Finish: National Runner Up (2nd Place)
The 2007–08 Memphis Tigers were the most successful team in program history and one of the most dominant runs in college basketball. Led by head coach John Calipari in his eighth season and freshman point guard Derrick Rose, Memphis finished 38–2 and reached the NCAA Championship game. Their 38 wins set an NCAA record at the time, though all wins and one loss were later vacated by the NCAA due to questions about Rose’s eligibility.
The Tigers began the season ranked No. 3 in the nation with a lineup that blended new talent and veteran leadership. Rose joined established stars Chris Douglas-Roberts and Joey Dorsey, forming a core that immediately put Memphis among the top programs in the country. The Tigers opened the year with wins over Oklahoma and Connecticut at Madison Square Garden, then defeated USC in overtime in the Jimmy V Classic. December victories over No. 5 Georgetown and No. 17 Arizona solidified their standing. By late January, Memphis was 26–0 and ranked No. 1 in both major polls for the first time in school history.
The winning streak ended in February with a 66–62 home loss to No. 2 Tennessee in one of the most anticipated regular season games of the decade. Memphis regrouped and rolled through Conference USA before reaching the NCAA Tournament as a No. 1 seed.
In the tournament, the Tigers defeated Texas in the Elite Eight and UCLA in the Final Four to reach the national title game. In the championship, Memphis led Kansas late but faltered at the free-throw line. Mario Chalmers hit a three-point shot with 2.1 seconds left to force overtime, where Kansas prevailed 75–68.
Derrick Rose went on to become the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft and the youngest MVP in NBA history in 2011. Chris Douglas-Roberts and Joey Dorsey also reached the league, while Calipari’s ability to recruit elite talent became the defining feature of his career.
Although the season was officially vacated, the 2007–08 Memphis Tigers remain remembered as one of the greatest mid-major teams in history and a squad that came within seconds of winning a national championship.
6) 2020-2021 Gonzaga (31-1)
Head Coach: Mark Few
League: West Coast Conference
Starting Lineup: Jalen Suggs (NBA), Andrew Nembhard (NBA), Corey Kispert (NBA), Anton Watson (NBA), Drew Timme (NBA)
Bench: Joel Ayayi (NBA), Dominick Harris, Julian Strawther (NBA), Aaron Cook, Oumar Ballo
NCAA Tournament Finish: National Runner Up (2nd Place)
The 2020–21 Gonzaga Bulldogs came within one game of perfection. Led by Mark Few, the team finished 31–1 and advanced to the national championship game before losing to Baylor 86–70.
Gonzaga entered the season with one of the most talented rosters in school history. Freshman guard Jalen Suggs emerged as a star, while Corey Kispert, Drew Timme, and Andrew Nembhard provided experience and balance. Joel Ayayi and Julian Strawther added depth, making the Bulldogs one of the deepest teams in the country.
The Bulldogs rolled through the regular season, going 15–0 in conference play and winning the West Coast Conference tournament. They entered the NCAA Tournament as the overall No. 1 seed and extended their unbeaten run to 31–0, becoming the first team since Indiana State in 1979 to reach the national championship game undefeated.
One of the most memorable moments of the season came in the Final Four, when Jalen Suggs banked in a 30-foot buzzer beater in overtime to defeat UCLA 93–90. The highlight instantly became one of the greatest shots in NCAA Tournament history.
In the title game, Gonzaga was dominated by Baylor’s defense and physicality, falling 86–70. The loss ended their dream of becoming the first undefeated national champion since Indiana in 1976.
Gonzaga finished the season ranked No. 2 in both the AP and Coaches Polls. Suggs, Kispert, and Timme earned All-American recognition, and several players moved on to NBA careers. Despite the loss, the 2020–21 Bulldogs remain one of the best teams never to win a national title.
7) 1996-1997 Utah (29-4)
Head Coach: Rick Majeris
League: Mountain West Conference
Starting Lineup: Andre Miller (NBA), Ben Canton, Hanno Mottola (NBA), Keith Van Horn (NBA), Michael Doleac (NBA)
NCAA Tournament Finish: Elite 8
The 1996–1997 Utah Utes men’s basketball team, coached by Rick Majerus, finished the season with a 29–4 overall record and a 15–1 mark in the Western Athletic Conference. The team was loaded with future NBA talent, including Keith Van Horn, Andre Miller, Michael Doleac, Hanno Mottola, and Ben Canton. Van Horn earned consensus First-Team All-American honors and was a three-time WAC Player of the Year, while Miller served as the floor general, controlling the tempo and facilitating the offense.
Utah dominated early in the NCAA tournament, defeating Navy and Charlotte with relative ease. In the Sweet 16, the team faced a strong Stanford squad. Van Horn posted 25 points and 14 rebounds, Miller contributed 19 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists, and Doleac added 16 points and six rebounds. Miller engaged in a back-and-forth duel with Stanford All-American Brevin Knight, showcasing his ability to manage high-pressure situations.
The Utes’ tournament run ended in the Elite Eight with a loss to eventual national champion Kentucky, but the team’s performance highlighted the depth of talent on the roster. Center Michael Doleac, who was also a pre-med student, led the team in scoring at times, while Miller’s leadership and playmaking solidified his role as the team’s standout star. The Utes had previously won the WAC regular-season title but fell to UNLV in the conference tournament. Their NCAA journey demonstrated a balance of elite scoring, disciplined defense, and cohesive teamwork that made Utah one of the strongest mid-major teams of the era.
8) 1978-1979 Indiana State (33-1)
Head Coach: Bill Hodges
League: Missouri Valley Conference
Starting Lineup: Carl Nicks (NBA), Leroy Staley, Larry Bird (NBA), Bob Heaton, Alex Gilbert (Overseas)
Bench: Steve Reed, Brad Miley
NCAA Tournament Finish: National Runner Up (2nd Place)
The 1978–79 Indiana State Sycamores completed one of the most remarkable seasons in college basketball history, finishing 33–1 and reaching the NCAA Championship game in their first-ever tournament appearance. The team was led by first-year head coach Bill Hodges and National Player of the Year Larry Bird. Bird averaged 28.6 points, 14.8 rebounds, and six assists per game, leading the team to an undefeated regular season.
The Sycamores competed in the Missouri Valley Conference and went 16–0 in conference play. They played home games at the Hulman Center in Terre Haute, Indiana. Indiana State began the season unranked but quickly rose to No. 1 after sweeping the regular season. On November 20, they defeated the touring Soviet National Team 83–79, one of only four college teams to beat the Soviets that year.
Indiana State advanced through the NCAA Tournament to face Magic Johnson and Michigan State in the championship game. The game, played before the largest television audience for college basketball at the time, ended with Indiana State losing 75–64. Bird’s performance throughout the season transformed the program and elevated the Sycamores into national prominence.
Other key contributors included Carl Nicks, who averaged 19.3 points per game, and starters Bob Heaton, Leroy Staley, and Alex Gilbert. Brad Miley and Steve Reed provided depth from the bench. Bird’s combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking carried the team, and the 1978–79 Sycamores remain the last unbeaten team to reach the NCAA title game before Gonzaga in 2021.
The season cemented Larry Bird’s legacy as one of the greatest collegiate players of all time and established Indiana State as a historic mid-major program despite the loss in the championship game.
9) 2009-2010 Butler (33-5)
Head Coach: Brad Stevens
League: Horizon League
Starting Lineup: Shelden Mack (NBA), Willie Veasley, Gordon Hayward (NBA), Avery Jukes, Matt Howard
Bench: Ronald Nored, Zack Hahn
NCAA Tournament Finish: National Runner Up (2nd Place)
The 2009–10 Butler Bulldogs were led by head coach Brad Stevens and NBA lottery pick Gordon Hayward. The team finished 33–5 and advanced to the national championship game, one of the most memorable runs for a mid-major program.
Butler began the season ranked 10th in the Coaches Poll and 11th in the AP Poll. Key players Gordon Hayward and Shelvin Mack had previously led Team USA to a gold medal at the FIBA Under-19 World Championship, providing experience and confidence. The Bulldogs were initially considered a sleeper team but proved to be legitimate contenders under Stevens, widely regarded as one of the finest strategic minds in college basketball.
During the NCAA Tournament, Butler defeated Michigan State in the Final Four to reach the national championship game against Duke on April 5, 2010. The championship contest, played just miles from Butler’s campus, was a close and tightly contested game. Duke defeated Butler 61–59 in a back-and-forth match that became the highest-rated national championship game of the decade.
The Bulldogs’ roster combined talent, poise, and coaching discipline. Gordon Hayward went on to an NBA career as a top draft pick. Shelvin Mack also played professionally. Butler’s 2009–10 team is remembered as one of the most accomplished mid-major squads in NCAA history and for nearly completing one of the most remarkable Cinderella runs to a national title.
10) 2003-2004 St. Josephs (30-2)
Head Coach: Phil Martelli
League: Atlantic 10
Starting Lineup: Jameer Nelson (NBA), Delonte West (NBA), Chet Stachitas, Pat Carroll, Dwayne Jones (NBA)
Bench: Tyrone Barley, John Bryant, Dwayne Lee
NCAA Tournament Finish: Elite 8
St. Joseph’s entered the 2003–2004 season with one of the strongest backcourts in college basketball, led by senior guard Jameer Nelson, who won the AP National Player of the Year award, and junior guard Delonte West.
The Hawks opened their season on November 14 at Madison Square Garden with a 73–66 victory over No. 7 Gonzaga. They went on to dominate the regular season, finishing with a perfect 27–0 record and a 16–0 mark in the Atlantic 10. Along the way, they secured victories over Big 5 rivals, including a 74–67 road win against Villanova on February 2 and a 4–0 record in the Philadelphia Big 5.
Ranked No. 1 nationally entering the Atlantic 10 tournament, St. Joseph’s lost 87–67 in the quarterfinals to Xavier. Despite the setback, they were awarded a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. In the East Regional, the Hawks defeated Liberty in the first round, Texas Tech in the second round, and Wake Forest in the Sweet Sixteen. Their season ended in the Elite Eight with a 64–62 loss to No. 2 seed Oklahoma State, when Nelson missed a shot in the final seconds.
The Hawks became the first team since 1991 to complete an undefeated regular season and were one of only 25 teams in Division I history to accomplish the feat. They remained the last undefeated regular season team until Wichita State achieved the milestone in 2014.
11) 2016-2017 Gonzaga (37-2)
Head Coach: Mark Few
League: West Coast Conference
Starting Lineup: Nigel Williams-Goss (NBA), Jordan Matthews (NBA), Johnathan Williams (NBA), Killian Tillie (NBA), Przemek Karnowski
Bench: Josh Perkins, Rui Hachimura (NBA), Zack Collins (NBA)
NCAA Tournament Finish: Title Game (2nd Place)
The 2016–2017 Gonzaga Bulldogs, led by head coach Mark Few, finished the season with a 37–2 overall record and a 17–1 mark in West Coast Conference play. The team won both the WCC regular season and tournament championships and earned the first appearance in a national championship game in school history.
The roster featured a mix of experienced players and talented underclassmen. Senior guard Jordan Matthews and junior guard Nigel Williams-Goss led the backcourt, while Johnathan Williams, Killian Tillie, and Zach Collins anchored the frontcourt. Freshman Rui Hachimura also contributed significantly off the bench, and the team included multiple future NBA players.
Gonzaga entered the NCAA Tournament with momentum, defeating South Dakota State, Northwestern, West Virginia, and Xavier to reach the Final Four. In the national semifinals, the Bulldogs defeated South Carolina to advance to the championship game. The title game was closely contested, but Gonzaga ultimately lost 71–65 to North Carolina.
This team is remembered for its balance, depth, and the consistent excellence that allowed Gonzaga to compete with any program in the country. The 2016–2017 season solidified Gonzaga as a national power and marked a historic milestone in the program’s history.
12) 2007-2008 Davidson (29-7)
Head Coach: Bob McKillon
League: Southern
Starting Lineup: Steph Curry (NBA), Jason Richards, Thomas Sander, Boris Meno, Andrew Lovedale
NCAA Tournament Finish: Elite 8
The 2007–2008 Davidson Wildcats were coached by Bob McKillop, who was in his nineteenth season leading the program. Davidson went 29–7 overall and a perfect 20–0 in the Southern Conference, winning both the regular season and conference tournament titles. The team finished ranked 23rd in the final Associated Press poll.
Sophomore guard Stephen Curry emerged as one of the top players in the country. He averaged 25.9 points, 2.9 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, earning consensus Second Team All-America honors. He also set the NCAA Division I single season record for three-point field goals made with 162. His scoring and efficiency helped Davidson average 77.9 points per game while holding opponents to 63.2 points per game.
Davidson entered the NCAA Tournament as a No. 10 seed in the Midwest Regional. In the opening round, Curry scored 40 points in an 82–76 win over Gonzaga. In the second round, the Wildcats came back from a 17-point deficit to defeat Georgetown 74–70 behind Curry’s 30 points. In the Sweet Sixteen, Curry scored 33 points to lead Davidson past Wisconsin 73–56.
The Wildcats’ run ended in the Elite Eight with a 59–57 loss to eventual national champion Kansas. Curry scored 25 points and broke the NCAA single season three-point record during the game. His performance throughout the tournament earned him Most Outstanding Player honors for the Midwest Regional, a rare achievement for a player whose team did not reach the Final Four.
The 2008 Davidson team is remembered for completing an undefeated conference season and for making the program’s deepest NCAA Tournament run since 1969. Curry’s play during this stretch established him as one of the most impactful players in modern college basketball and brought national recognition to Davidson College.
13) 2013-2014 Wichita State (35-1)
Head Coach: Greg Marshall
League: Missouri Valley
Starting Lineup: Fred Van Vleet (NBA), Tekele Cotton, Ron Baker (NBA), Darius Carter, Cleanthony Early (NBA)
Bench: Nick Wiggins, Evan Wessel, Shaquille Morris
NCAA Tournament Finish: 2nd Round
The 2013–2014 season stands as one of the most successful in Wichita State basketball history. Under head coach Gregg Marshall, the Shockers returned several key players from the team that reached the Final Four the previous year. The starting lineup featured Fred VanVleet, Tekele Cotton, Ron Baker, Darius Carter, and Cleanthony Early, with Nick Wiggins, Evan Wessel, and Shaquille Morris providing important contributions off the bench.
Wichita State completed the regular season 31–0, becoming the first Division I men’s team to finish undefeated since St. Joseph’s in 2004 and the first to do so with an 18–0 record in Missouri Valley Conference play since Bradley in 1986. Their 35–0 start broke the Division I record for best season opening, surpassing the 34–0 run of UNLV in 1991. The Shockers rose as high as second in the national polls and held that position at the end of the regular season, the highest ranking in school history. They also captured their first Missouri Valley Conference tournament title since 1987, entering the NCAA Tournament with a perfect 34–0 record.
In the NCAA Tournament, Wichita State opened with a 64–37 victory over Cal Poly. In the Round of 32, they faced Kentucky in a highly anticipated matchup. The game was competitive throughout, with multiple lead changes and high-level play from both teams. Wichita State ultimately fell 78–76 when a last-second three-point attempt by VanVleet missed, ending their pursuit of the first undefeated championship season in nearly four decades.
Despite the loss, Wichita State finished 35–1 and established itself as one of the best mid-major teams of the modern era. The roster included future NBA players such as VanVleet, Baker, and Early, and the team’s balance, depth, and consistency allowed them to dominate opponents throughout the season. The 2014 Shockers remain the benchmark for undefeated regular seasons in the mid-major ranks and are remembered for sustaining excellence over the course of an entire year against every opponent they faced.
14) 2019-2020 Dayton (29-2)
Head Coach: Anthony Grant
League: Atlantic 10
Starting Lineup: Jalen Crutcher (NBA), Trey Landers, Ron Baker, Obi Toppin (NBA),
Bench: Nick Wiggins, Evan Wessel, Shaquille Morris
NCAA Tournament Finish: Season Cancelled
The 2019–2020 Dayton Flyers, coached by Anthony Grant, produced the best season in program history. Dayton finished with a 29–2 overall record, went undefeated in Atlantic 10 Conference play, and won the league’s regular season championship. The Flyers were ranked third in both final major polls, the highest national ranking for the program since the 1960s.
The team was led by sophomore forward Obi Toppin, who became the first consensus First Team All-American in school history. Toppin won the Naismith College Player of the Year, the John R. Wooden Award, and the AP Player of the Year, establishing himself as the best player in college basketball that season. Junior guard Jalen Crutcher was the team’s other standout, averaging double figures in scoring and providing leadership in the backcourt. Trey Landers and Ryan Mikesell were key contributors, while guards Ibi Watson and Rodney Chatman gave Dayton valuable depth.
Dayton’s offense was one of the most efficient in the nation. The Flyers averaged 80 points per game and led Division I in field goal percentage at 52.5 percent. They also ranked second nationally in effective field goal percentage. Their defense was disciplined and consistent, holding opponents to under 66 points per game.
The Flyers won 20 consecutive games to close the regular season and entered March as one of the top contenders for the NCAA championship. However, the postseason was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, preventing Dayton from competing in the Atlantic 10 Tournament or the NCAA Tournament. Anthony Grant was named consensus National Coach of the Year, while Toppin became Dayton’s first Wooden Award winner and a projected NBA lottery pick.
The 2020 Dayton Flyers are remembered as one of the strongest mid-major teams of the modern era and as one of the greatest teams never given the opportunity to compete for a national title.
15) 1992-1993 Temple (20-13)
Head Coach: John Cheney
League: Atlantic 10
Starting Lineup: Rick Brunson (NBA), Aaron McKie (NBA), Eddie Jones (NBA), Derrick Battie, Willie Cunningham (NBA)
NCAA Tournament Finish: Elite 8
The 1992–1993 Temple Owls, coached by John Chaney, entered the season with one of the most talented lineups in school history. The starting five featured Rick Brunson, Aaron McKie, Eddie Jones, Derrick Battie, and Willie Cunningham. The roster was stacked with future NBA talent, as McKie, Jones, and Brunson all went on to long professional careers.
During the regular season, Temple struggled with consistency and finished 20–13 overall and 8–6 in the Atlantic 10. They went just 2–4 against ranked opponents and entered the NCAA Tournament as a No. 7 seed in the West Region. Despite the uneven regular season, the Owls caught fire in March. In the first round they beat Missouri by 14 points, followed by an 11-point win over Santa Clara. In the Sweet Sixteen, Temple defeated Vanderbilt 67–59 to advance to the Elite Eight.
The Owls’ tournament run ended with a 77–72 loss to No. 1 seed Michigan and its famed Fab Five. Brunson, McKie, and Jones combined for 58 points, but Temple’s supporting cast managed just 19. Jalen Rose was the difference for Michigan, scoring 17 points and getting to the free throw line 10 times.
McKie led the Owls during the season with averages of 20.6 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists per game, earning Atlantic 10 Player of the Year honors and Associated Press Honorable Mention All-America recognition. Jones, known for his athleticism and defensive presence, added 17 points and 7 rebounds per game, while Brunson contributed 14 points and nearly 5 assists per contest.
The 1993 Elite Eight appearance cemented the trio’s place in Temple history. McKie, Jones, and Brunson played together for three seasons, combining for nearly 4,700 career points, six NCAA Tournament victories, and one deep tournament run that remains one of Temple’s most memorable. All three were later inducted into the Temple Athletics Hall of Fame, recognized both for their college careers and for their success in the NBA.
16) 1968-1969 Drake (26-5)
Head coach: Maury John
League: Missouri Valley
Players: Willie Wise (NBA), Willie McCarter (NBA), Al Williams (NBA), Gary Zeller (NBA)
NCAA Tournament Finish: Elite 8
The 1968–1969 Drake Bulldogs were led by eleventh-year head coach Maury John and represented one of the most successful seasons in the program’s history. The team finished 26–5 overall and competed in the Missouri Valley Conference. Drake featured four future NBA players: Willie Wise, Willie McCarter, Al Williams, and Gary Zeller.
Drake began the season with strong performances, including a 12–1 record at home, 8–3 on the road, and 6–1 at neutral sites. They competed in the Dallas Classic in December, defeating Minnesota and Southern Methodist. The Bulldogs earned recognition in the national polls throughout the season, reaching 18th in the AP Top 20 on January 7, 1969, and climbing to 11th by March 4. The team also won a Missouri Valley Conference playoff game against Wichita on March 8 to secure the conference championship.
In the NCAA Tournament, Drake advanced to the Final Four for the first time in school history. They defeated several opponents to reach the national semifinals, where they faced UCLA. The Bulldogs fell 85–82 in a closely contested game. Their third-place finish marked the highest NCAA Tournament placement in Drake history, a record that stood for decades. Star guard Willie McCarter was later selected in the first round of the NBA Draft, 14th overall.
The 1969 Drake Bulldogs are remembered as one of the most talented mid-major teams of their era. Their success brought national attention to the program, and their Final Four run remains a defining moment in Drake basketball history. A documentary on the team was released in 2004, recreating key games and including commentary from players and coaches to preserve the legacy of this remarkable season.
17) 2010-2011 San Diego State (34-3)
Head Coach: Steve Fisher
League: Mountain West Conference
Starting Lineup: Dj Gay, Chase Tapley, Kawhi Leonard (NBA), Billy White, Malcom Thomas (NBA),
Bench: Jamaal Franklin (NBA), James Rahon
NCAA Tournament Finish: Sweet 16
The 2010–2011 San Diego State Aztecs, coached by Steve Fisher, finished the season with an outstanding 34–3 overall record and a 14–2 mark in the Mountain West Conference. The team shared the conference regular season title with BYU and went on to win the Mountain West Conference tournament, earning an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
The roster was anchored by future NBA star Kawhi Leonard, who was named Mountain West Conference Player of the Year and a consensus first-team All-American. Leonard was joined in the starting lineup by DJ Gay, Chase Tapley, Billy White, and Malcolm Thomas. Jamaal Franklin and James Rahon provided key contributions off the bench. The team combined elite defense with efficient offensive execution, making it one of the most complete mid-major squads of the era.
In the NCAA Tournament, San Diego State advanced to the Sweet Sixteen. The Aztecs opened with a 68–50 victory over Northern Colorado, followed by a thrilling 71–64 double-overtime win against Temple. Their season ended with a competitive 74–67 loss to eventual national champion UConn.
This team is remembered for its depth, balance, and the emergence of Leonard as a national-level talent. The Aztecs’ defensive intensity, disciplined offense, and ability to compete with top programs solidified the 2010–2011 squad as one of the strongest mid-major teams in recent history.
18) 1989-1990 LMU (26-6)
Head Coach: Paul Westhead
League: Western Athletic
Starting Lineup: Terrell Lowery, Jeff Fryer, Bo Kimble (NBA), Per Stumner, Hank Gathers (Potential NBA Lottery Pick)
NCAA Tournament Finish: Elite 8
At the helm was Paul Westhead, a coach renowned for his fast-paced, high-scoring offensive strategy, often referred to as the "Guru of Go." Westhead's philosophy emphasized relentless full-court pressure, rapid transitions, and a commitment to shooting within seven seconds of gaining possession. This approach was designed to exhaust opponents and capitalize on LMU's depth and conditioning. The team's offensive prowess was not just a tactic but a reflection of their conditioning and mental fortitude.
The season took a heartbreaking turn on March 4, 1990, during the West Coast Conference Tournament semifinals against Portland. Hank Gathers, the team's star forward and a consensus All-American, collapsed on the court and was later pronounced dead due to a cardiac arrhythmia. His passing left the team and the basketball community in shock. Gathers had been a dominant force, leading the nation in scoring and rebounding the previous season.
Despite the profound loss, LMU honored Gathers' memory with a remarkable NCAA Tournament run. Entering as the 11th seed in the West Region, the Lions defeated New Mexico State, Michigan, and Alabama, averaging an astonishing 105.8 points per game. In their second-round victory over Michigan, they set an NCAA Tournament record for the most combined points in a game (264) and the most points by a team (149). This offensive outburst showcased the team's resilience and commitment to their fallen teammate.
Although their journey ended in the Elite Eight with a loss to UNLV, the 1989–1990 LMU team left an indelible mark on college basketball. Their fast-paced play, emotional resilience, and tribute to Hank Gathers became a symbol of perseverance and unity. The team's story was later immortalized in the ESPN 30 for 30 documentary "The Guru of Go," which highlighted their unique playing style and the profound impact of Gathers' death on the team and the sport.
19) 1995-1996 UMass (35-2)
Head Coach: John Callapari
League: Atlantic 10
Starting Lineup: Carmelo Travieso, Edgar Padilla, Donta Bright, Dana Dingle, Marcus Camby (NBA)
NCAA Tournament Finish: Final 4
The 1995–1996 UMass Minutemen, led by head coach John Calipari, finished the season with a 35–2 overall record and a 15–1 mark in Atlantic 10 play, capturing the conference title. The team played its home games at the William D. Mullins Memorial Center and featured future NBA lottery pick Marcus Camby, a dominant center known for his shot-blocking and rebounding.
UMass earned a number one seed in the NCAA Tournament and advanced to the Final Four, where they lost a close game by seven points to eventual national champion Kentucky. The Minutemen were also Atlantic 10 tournament champions, defeating Temple in the finals. Camby’s presence on both ends of the court anchored the team, and the roster included several key contributors who helped make UMass a national contender.
Although the NCAA later vacated UMass’s Final Four appearance due to violations involving Camby, the team’s performance remains one of the most memorable in the program’s history. This season marked Calipari’s first major success at UMass and established him as a rising star in college basketball coaching.
20) 1980-1981 BYU (25-7)
Head Coach: Frank Arnold
League: Western Athletic
Starting Lineup: Steve Craig, Danny Ainge (NBA), Steve Trumbo, Fred Roberts (NBA), Greg Kite (NBA)
NCAA Tournament Finish: Elite 8
The 1980–1981 BYU Cougars, coached by Frank Arnold, finished the season with a 25–7 overall record and advanced to the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament. The team played its home games at the Marriott Center and competed in the Western Athletic Conference.
BYU’s roster featured future NBA players Danny Ainge, Fred Roberts, and Greg Kite, along with Steve Craig and Steve Trumbo in the starting lineup. Led by Ainge, a multi-sport athlete who would go on to a long NBA career, the Cougars defeated #11 Princeton in the first round, #3 UCLA in the second round, and #2 Notre Dame in a 51–50 regional semifinal. Their tournament run ended in the East Regional Final, where they lost to #1 Virginia, led by Ralph Sampson, 74–60.
This season marked a significant achievement for BYU basketball, showcasing a roster of NBA-caliber talent and a team capable of competing deep into the NCAA Tournament.
21) 1985 - 1986 Navy (30-5)
Head Coach: Paul Evans
League: Colonial Athletic Association
Starting Lineup: Doug Wojcik, Cliff Rees, Kylor Whitaker, Vernon Butler, David Robinson (NBA)
NCAA Tournament Finish: Elite 8
The 1985–1986 Navy Midshipmen, coached by Paul Evans, finished the season with a 30–5 overall record and advanced to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. The team competed in the Colonial Athletic Association and captured both the regular-season and conference tournament titles with a 13–1 conference record.
Navy was led by future number one overall NBA draft pick David Robinson, who averaged 23 points, 13 rebounds, and six blocks per game. He was supported by veteran players Cliff Rees, Vernon Butler, Doug Wojcik, and Kylor Whitaker. The Midshipmen’s tournament run ended in the Elite Eight with a loss to Duke, but Robinson’s dominance and the team’s strong supporting cast made Navy one of the most memorable mid-major programs of the era.
22) 1970-1971 Long Beach (24-5)
Head Coach: Jerry Tarkaian
League: Pacific Coast
Starting Five: George Trapp (NBA), Ed Ratleff (NBA), Chuck Terry (NBA), Eric Williams (NBA), Bob Lynn
NCAA Tournament Finish: Sweet 16
The 1970–71 Long Beach State men's basketball team, under the guidance of head coach Jerry Tarkanian, marked a significant milestone in the program's history. With a remarkable 24–5 record, they clinched the Pacific Coast Athletic Association (PCAA) title with a perfect 10–0 conference record. Their performance earned them a spot in the NCAA Tournament, where they advanced to the Sweet 16 before narrowly falling to UCLA by just two points.
The team's success was propelled by standout players such as Ed Ratleff, Chuck Terry, George Trapp, and Eric Williams. Ratleff, a 6'6" forward, was particularly notable for his scoring prowess and was later selected sixth overall in the 1973 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. Trapp and Terry, both 6'6" forwards, contributed significantly to the team's dynamic play. Williams, a 6'9" center, provided a strong presence in the paint. Their collective talents helped Long Beach State earn a No. 16 ranking in the final AP Poll of the season.
This season was pivotal in establishing Long Beach State as a formidable force in college basketball, laying the groundwork for future successes under Tarkanian's leadership.
23) 2017-2018 Nevada (29-8)
Head Coach: Eric Musselman
Conference: Mountain West Conference
Starters: Lindsay Drew, Caleb Martin (NBA), Cody Martin (NBA), Jordan Caroline, Josh Hall
NCAA Tournament Finish: Sweet 16
The 2017–2018 Nevada Wolf Pack men’s basketball team, coached by Eric Musselman in his third season, finished with a 29–8 record and made it to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. Competing in the Mountain West Conference, Nevada captured the regular-season title with a 15–3 conference record. The team was built on a combination of experienced transfers and returning players, giving them a deep and versatile roster that could compete at a high level.
Nevada’s roster was headlined by twin brothers Caleb and Cody Martin, both transfers from NC State. Caleb Martin led the team in scoring and was named the Mountain West Player of the Year, while Cody Martin anchored the defense and earned Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year honors. Forward Jordan Caroline was a first-team All-Mountain West selection, providing physicality, rebounding, and leadership. Guard Lindsey Drew added stability and playmaking, contributing on both ends of the floor. The combination of these players, along with supporting contributors, created a balanced and talented lineup capable of competing with elite teams.
The Wolf Pack entered the season with high expectations, having been picked to win the Mountain West in the preseason media poll. Throughout the regular season, Nevada showcased a potent offense and strong defensive effort, establishing themselves as one of the top mid-major programs in the nation. In the Mountain West Conference Tournament, Nevada advanced to the semifinals, defeating UNLV before falling to San Diego State.
Nevada’s NCAA Tournament run was historic and dramatic. In the first round, they defeated Texas 87–83 in overtime. In the second round, they mounted one of the most remarkable comebacks in tournament history, erasing a 22-point deficit in the final 11 minutes to defeat Cincinnati 75–73. This comeback tied for the second-largest deficit overcome in NCAA Tournament history. Their tournament journey ended in the Sweet 16 with a narrow 69–68 loss to Loyola-Chicago, who would advance to the Final Four.
The 2017–2018 Nevada Wolf Pack are remembered for their resilience, depth, and the coaching acumen of Eric Musselman. Built on transfers before the era of widespread player movement and NIL deals, this team exemplified strategic roster construction and player development. Their Sweet 16 run marked one of the most significant achievements in program history and demonstrated that a well-constructed mid-major team could compete with the nation’s elite.
24) 1964-1965 Princeton (23-6)
Head Coach: Butch Van Breda Kolff
Conference: Ivy League
Starters: Bill Bradley (NBA), Bob Haarlow, Ed Hummer, Gary Walters, Dan Rodenbach
NCAA Tournament Finish: Final 4
The 1964–1965 Princeton Tigers men’s basketball team, coached by Butch van Breda Kolff, had one of the most remarkable seasons in the program’s history. The team finished with a 23–6 overall record and went 13–1 in Ivy League play, capturing the conference title and earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament. Princeton advanced all the way to the Final Four, ultimately finishing third after defeating Wichita State in the consolation game.
Coach van Breda Kolff emphasized a style of play that encouraged players to read the game and make decisions based on the flow of play rather than relying solely on set plays. This approach fostered creativity, adaptability, and basketball intelligence, allowing the Tigers to compete with some of the nation’s best teams despite the limitations of an Ivy League roster.
Princeton’s tournament run was highlighted by close victories over St. Joseph’s and Providence in the East Regional, which showcased the team’s defensive intensity and offensive execution. In the national semifinal, Princeton faced Michigan and was defeated, but the Tigers responded with a dominant performance against Wichita State in the third-place game. Star forward Bill Bradley led the team throughout the season and the tournament, delivering remarkable scoring and leadership that helped propel Princeton to the Final Four.
The 1964–1965 Tigers left a lasting legacy in college basketball. Their innovative style of play, disciplined teamwork, and standout performances from players like Bill Bradley set a standard for Princeton basketball and demonstrated the impact a well-coached, intelligent team can have on the national stage. This season remains one of the most celebrated in the program’s long history.
25) 2008-2009 VCU (24-10)
Head Coach: Anthony Grant
Conference Colonial Athletic
Starting Lineup: Eric Maynor (NBA), Joey Rodriguez, Bradford Burgess, Lance Kerase, Larry Sanders (NBA)
NCAA Tournament Finish: 1st Round Loss
The 2008–09 Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Rams men's basketball team, under the guidance of head coach Anthony Grant, achieved a remarkable 24–10 record, securing the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) regular-season and tournament championships. Their season culminated in a narrow 65–64 loss to UCLA in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
The Rams were led by senior guard Eric Maynor, who averaged 24.4 points per game, 3.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists, showcasing his scoring and playmaking prowess. Sophomore guard Joey Rodriguez contributed significantly with 11.1 points per game, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. Bradford Burgess, a freshman, added 7.6 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, while sophomore forward Larry Sanders provided a strong defensive presence with 7.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks per game.
VCU's defensive strategy, characterized by aggressive ball pressure and relentless full-court defense, was a hallmark of their playstyle. This approach disrupted opponents' offensive flow and was instrumental in their success throughout the season. The Rams' commitment to defense was evident in their performance, as they held opponents to an average of 63.4 points per game.
Despite their impressive season, VCU's NCAA Tournament run was cut short by a one-point loss to UCLA. The game was a closely contested battle, with the Rams demonstrating resilience and competitive spirit. The team's performance throughout the season, particularly their defensive tenacity and balanced scoring, solidified their reputation as one of the premier mid-major programs of the era.
Honorable Mention Best Mid-Major Basketball Teams Ever
1996 Santa Clara, 2004 Southern Illionois, 2004 Xavier, 2005 Bradley, 2008 Western Kentucky, 2011 BYU, 2016 FGC
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