Embarking on a journey through the dynamic and inspiring world of NCAA basketball, the Longwood Lancers stand out as a symbol of dedication, growth, and community spirit. Since the inception of their men’s basketball program in 1976, coinciding with the school’s transition to a co-educational institution, the Lancers have carved a unique niche in collegiate sports. This story isn’t just about basketball; it’s about the evolution of a team that mirrors the resilience and tenacity of its players and coaches. It’s a narrative that weaves through the challenges and triumphs of a program that has continually strived for excellence.
Intriguing Facts About the Longwood Lancers
- Historical Beginnings: The journey of Longwood’s basketball program began in 1976, marking the school’s transition to a co-educational institution. This pivotal year laid the foundation for a legacy of resilience and growth in the world of collegiate basketball.
- Divisional Evolution: Over the years, the Lancers navigated the complexities of NCAA divisions, showcasing a spirit of adaptability and perseverance. From their early days in Division III, they ascended to Division II in 1980 and eventually reached Division I in 2004.
- Inaugural Division I Tournament: A landmark in Longwood’s basketball history was their first NCAA Division I tournament appearance in 2022, a testament to their relentless pursuit of excellence.
- Jerome Kersey’s Legacy: The Lancers are proudly associated with Jerome Kersey, a distinguished alumnus whose NBA career brought fame to the team. The Jerome Kersey Court stands as a homage to his enduring legacy.
- Joan Perry Brock Center: Signifying the growth and future aspirations of Longwood basketball, the state-of-the-art Joan Perry Brock Center, born from a significant donation, has become a cornerstone of the team’s facilities.
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The Historical Tapestry of the Longwood Lancers
The history of Longwood’s basketball program is a rich tapestry of trials, transitions, and triumphs. Established under the guidance of coach Allan McNamee, the team initially struggled to find its footing but steadily built its reputation. Their journey through various NCAA divisions is a reflection of the university’s commitment to nurturing a competitive basketball program. This narrative chronicles the team’s evolution, marked by pivotal moments and strategic decisions that shaped its path to becoming a respected contender in the Big South Conference.
The Golden Era
Identifying a single golden era in Longwood’s history can be challenging, but a notable period is the recent ascent under the leadership of coach Griff Aldrich. Aldrich’s philosophy, centering on resilience and teamwork, has been instrumental in redefining the team’s approach to the game. The culmination of this era was the 2022 season, where the Lancers not only showcased their competitive spirit but also achieved their first NCAA Division I tournament appearance. This era is marked by key players who exemplified the team’s ethos, contributing significantly to their major accomplishments.
Longwood Lancers’ Roll of Honor
The Roll of Honor for the Longwood Lancers is a testament to their enduring commitment to excellence in NCAA basketball. Key highlights include their first NCAA Division I Tournament appearance in 2022 and multiple conference championships. The legacy of Jerome Kersey, an NBA star and proud Longwood alumnus, continues to inspire current and future players. These accolades are not just trophies in a cabinet; they represent the sweat, determination, and spirit of a team that has consistently strived to exceed expectations.
Legendary Figures in Longwood Lancers History
The history of Longwood Lancers basketball is adorned with figures who have left an indelible mark on the program. Jerome Kersey stands out as a beacon of success, whose journey from Longwood to the NBA continues to inspire. Current head coach Griff Aldrich’s transformative leadership has ushered in a new era of success and hope. These figures are not just part of the team’s history; they are integral to its identity and ongoing narrative.
A Game to Remember
The 2022 Big South tournament championship game remains etched in the memory of every Lancer supporter. In this game, Longwood not only demonstrated their skill and strategy but also showcased the unity and resilience that have become the hallmarks of their style. Leading from start to finish, the team’s performance in this game was a microcosm of their season’s journey – a testament to their hard work, strategic planning, and unwavering spirit.
Longwood Lancers [year] Schedule
Regular Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Date: Mon 06/11/2023 | Opponent: St. Bonaventure Bonnies | Result: L 69-73 |
| Week 1 | Date: Sat 11/11/2023 | Opponent: St. Mary’s (MD) Seahawks | Result: W 95-43 |
| Week 2 | Date: Wed 15/11/2023 | Opponent: Maryland-Eastern Shore Hawks | Result: W 80-61 |
| Week 2 | Date: Sat 18/11/2023 | Opponent: North Carolina Central Eagles | Result: W 73-66 |
| Week 3 | Date: Fri 24/11/2023 | Opponent: Delaware State Hornets | Result: W 84-82 |
| Week 3 | Date: Sat 25/11/2023 | Opponent: Lamar Cardinals | Result: W 83-72 |
| Week 3 | Date: Sun 26/11/2023 | Opponent: Bethune-Cookman Wildcats | Result: W 69-48 |
| Week 4 | Date: Thu 30/11/2023 | Opponent: Apprentice School Builders | Result: W 95-46 |
| Week 4 | Date: Sun 03/12/2023 | Opponent: Morgan St. Bears | Result: W 88-54 |
| Week 5 | Date: Sat 09/12/2023 | Opponent: Delaware State Hornets | Result: W 62-61 |
| Week 6 | Date: Mon 11/12/2023 | Opponent: Gallaudet University Bison | Result: W 92-61 |
| Week 6 | Date: Wed 13/12/2023 | Opponent: Milwaukee Panthers | Result: W 80-67 |
| Week 6 | Date: Sun 17/12/2023 | Opponent: VMI Keydets | Result: W 68-49 |
| Week 7 | Date: Wed 20/12/2023 | Opponent: North Carolina Central Eagles | Result: L 70-79 |
| Week 8 | Date: Sat 30/12/2023 | Opponent: Dayton Flyers | Result: L 69-78 |
| Week 9 | Date: Wed 03/01/2024 | Opponent: Winthrop Eagles | Result: L 60-68 |
| Week 9 | Date: Sat 06/01/2024 | Opponent: Charleston Southern Buccaneers | Result: W 77-56 |
| Week 10 | Date: Thu 11/01/2024 | Opponent: Radford Highlanders | Result: L 58-69 |
| Week 10 | Date: Sat 13/01/2024 | Opponent: UNC Asheville Bulldogs | Result: L 61-65 |
| Week 11 | Date: Wed 17/01/2024 | Opponent: South Carolina Upstate Spartans | Result: L 71-73 |
| Week 11 | Date: Sat 20/01/2024 | Opponent: Presbyterian Blue Hose | Result: W 80-70 |
| Week 12 | Date: Wed 24/01/2024 | Opponent: Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs | Result: L 64-76 |
| Week 13 | Date: Thu 01/02/2024 | Opponent: High Point Panthers | Result: L 76-93 |
| Week 13 | Date: Sat 03/02/2024 | Opponent: Charleston Southern Buccaneers | Result: L 77-83 |
| Week 14 | Date: Wed 07/02/2024 | Opponent: South Carolina Upstate Spartans | Result: L 64-69 |
| Week 14 | Date: Sat 10/02/2024 | Opponent: Winthrop Eagles | Result: W 84-74 |
| Week 15 | Date: Sat 17/02/2024 | Opponent: Presbyterian Blue Hose | Result: W 81-73 |
| Week 16 | Date: Wed 21/02/2024 | Opponent: UNC Asheville Bulldogs | Result: W 80-75 |
| Week 16 | Date: Sat 24/02/2024 | Opponent: Radford Highlanders | Result: L 82-88 |
| Week 17 | Date: Thu 29/02/2024 | Opponent: Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs | Result: L 69-72 |
| Week 17 | Date: Sat 02/03/2024 | Opponent: High Point Panthers | Result: W 74-72 |
Post Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Fri 08/03/2024 | Opponent: Winthrop Eagles | Result: W 69-56 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Sat 09/03/2024 | Opponent: High Point Panthers | Result: W 80-79 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Sun 10/03/2024 | Opponent: UNC Asheville Bulldogs | Result: W 85-59 |
| NCAA Tournament | Date: Fri 22/03/2024 | Opponent: Houston Cougars | Result: L 46-86 |
Home of Longwood Lancers: Joan Perry Brock Center
The Joan Perry Brock Center, replacing the storied Willett Hall, is not just a physical structure but a symbol of Longwood’s basketball aspirations and achievements. This state-of-the-art facility, born from a generous donation, is a beacon of the team’s progress and future ambitions. It’s here that the Lancers train, strategize, and play, surrounded by an atmosphere of passion and support that is palpable during game days. The center is a focal point of Longwood’s basketball program, embodying the history, spirit, and aspirations of the team.
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