DePaul men’s basketball team has earned a spot in the inaugural College Basketball Crown postseason tournament, an exciting development for the program.
This 16-team single-elimination tournament, organized by Fox Sports and AEG, will be held in Las Vegas from March 31 to April 6.
DePaul will face Cincinnati in their opening game on April 1 at 2 p.m. CT, marking the first encounter between these former BIG EAST rivals since 2013.
This opportunity not only extends their season but also offers significant exposure and growth potential for the team.
DePaul’s Journey to the College Basketball Crown
DePaul’s selection as an at-large team for the College Basketball Crown is a testament to their resilience and growth over the season.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Chris Holtmann, the Blue Demons navigated a challenging season, overcoming injuries and tough competition.
Their recent performance, winning three of their last four games, including a double-overtime battle against Creighton, highlighted their determination and skill.
The Significance of the Tournament
The College Basketball Crown provides a unique platform for teams that narrowly missed out on the NCAA Tournament.
DePaul joins a competitive field of teams, including Arizona State, Butler, Boise State, Cincinnati, Colorado, George Washington, Georgetown, Nebraska, Oregon State, UCF, USC, Utah, Tulane, Villanova, and Washington State.
This tournament not only showcases high-level basketball but also offers NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities for student-athletes, enhancing their college experience.
Key Highlights of DePaul’s Season
DePaul’s season under Coach Holtmann has been marked by significant achievements and milestones.
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The team secured 14 wins, including four conference victories, a substantial improvement from the previous season.
They set a new school record with 309 three-pointers made in a single season and ranked fourth all-time with 518 assists.
Their assist rate of 60.2 percent is the highest since the 1995-96 season, a testament to their cohesive and strategic gameplay.
Fan Engagement and Support
One of the notable aspects of this season has been the increased fan engagement.
DePaul’s attendance reached its highest numbers since the 2019-20 season, with the second-highest increase in attendance in the BIG EAST conference.
This surge in support reflects the growing excitement and optimism surrounding the program.
Looking Ahead: The College Basketball Crown
The College Basketball Crown presents a significant opportunity for DePaul to continue building on their success.
The tournament, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena and T Mobile Arena, promises an exciting atmosphere for both players and fans.
Ticket packages are available for all sessions, and the Crown Town Fan Fest offers a unique pre-game experience with poolside seating, live DJ, and more.
Coach Holtmann’s Vision
Coach Holtmann expressed his enthusiasm for the tournament, emphasizing the growth and development of the team throughout the season.
*We are really looking forward to continuing our season in the Postseason. Our team really grew and evolved throughout the season and weathered some tough injuries. We truly felt like we were playing our best basketball in the past month, so continuing to play is exciting,* he stated.
DePaul’s Postseason History
This postseason appearance marks DePaul’s first since the 2018-19 team advanced to the championship game of the College Basketball Invitational (CBI).
The Blue Demons last participated in the National Invitational Tournament (NIT) in the 2006-07 season.
This return to postseason play is a significant milestone for the program, highlighting their progress and potential under Coach Holtmann’s leadership.
Community and Alumni Support
Vice President and Director of Athletics DeWayne Peevy praised the team’s hard work and dedication, noting that this achievement underscores the program’s growth.
*Earning a spot in the inaugural College Basketball Crown postseason tournament is a testament to their commitment and growth. This opportunity highlights the progress our program has made under Coach Holtmann. The Blue Demons are ready to represent DePaul, and the City of Chicago, on a national stage and continue building a successful future for our program,* he said.
Get Your Tickets and Support the Blue Demons
Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets for the College Basketball Crown and support DePaul in this exciting tournament.
Ticket packages for all sessions are available, and the Crown Town Fan Fest promises an unforgettable pre-game experience.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit DePaul Blue Demons.
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As DePaul heads to Las Vegas for the College Basketball Crown, the excitement and anticipation are palpable.
This tournament not only offers a chance for postseason success but also serves as a stepping stone for future achievements.
The Blue Demons are poised to make a significant impact, representing DePaul and the City of Chicago with pride and determination.
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