The Seattle Redhawks’ journey in NCAA basketball represents a remarkable story of perseverance, achievement, and community spirit. Established in 1946, originally known as the Seattle Chieftains, this team has etched a distinct place in collegiate basketball with its notable history, unique cultural identity, and a series of triumphs and challenges. The story of the Redhawks is not just about the games and championships; it’s about the formation of a legacy in NCAA basketball, showcasing the power of teamwork, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Intriguing Facts About the Seattle Redhawks
The story of the Seattle Redhawks is a rich tapestry woven with moments of triumph and resilience. Since their establishment in 1946, the Redhawks have grown from a budding team into a significant presence in college basketball. Their ascent to prominence was especially notable during the 1950s and 1960s when they made 11 appearances in the NCAA tournament. These decades were a golden era, marked by exceptional talent and strong team performances that established them as a formidable force in NCAA basketball. The team’s journey was not without its challenges, as they navigated through different divisions, including a period in the NAIA due to financial constraints, and later rejoined NCAA Division I, underscoring their tenacity and commitment to excellence in basketball.
The Golden Era
The late 1950s, particularly under the stewardship of John Castellani and the legendary Elgin Baylor, was a defining period in the Redhawks’ history. The 1957-58 season saw the team achieving its greatest success, reaching the NCAA tournament final. This era was characterized by a dynamic and impactful style of play, with significant contributions from various players. It was not just the skills on the court that made this era golden; it was also the formation of a team spirit and a winning culture that left a lasting impact on the program.
Legendary Figures in Seattle Redhawks History
The history of the Seattle Redhawks is replete with legendary figures who have left an indelible mark on the program. Players like Elgin Baylor and the O’Brien brothers – Ed and John, stand out for their exceptional contributions on and off the court. Their achievements in the professional arena post-college are a reflection of the high-quality training and exposure they received at Seattle University. These legends not only brought glory to the team but also inspired future generations of players.
A Game to Remember
Among the numerous memorable games in Redhawks’ history, the 1958 NCAA Tournament final stands out. This game, against the Kentucky Wildcats, was more than just a championship match; it was a demonstration of the team’s fighting spirit and resilience. Led by the outstanding Elgin Baylor, the team’s performance in this game is a defining moment in their history, showcasing their skill, determination, and the sheer will to succeed against all odds.
Seattle Redhawks [year] Schedule
Regular Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Date: Wed 08/11/2023 | Opponent: Prairie View A&M Panthers | Result: W 71-60 |
| Week 1 | Date: Sat 11/11/2023 | Opponent: Montana St. Bobcats | Result: W 71-68 |
| Week 2 | Date: Wed 15/11/2023 | Opponent: Northern Arizona Lumberjacks | Result: L 60-62 |
| Week 2 | Date: Sat 18/11/2023 | Opponent: VCU Rams | Result: L 56-60 |
| Week 3 | Date: Wed 22/11/2023 | Opponent: Idaho Vandals | Result: W 92-55 |
| Week 3 | Date: Sun 26/11/2023 | Opponent: UC San Diego Tritons | Result: W 79-67 |
| Week 4 | Date: Wed 29/11/2023 | Opponent: Utah Valley Wolverines | Result: L 72-78 |
| Week 4 | Date: Sat 02/12/2023 | Opponent: Southern Utah Thunderbirds | Result: W 73-63 |
| Week 5 | Date: Sat 09/12/2023 | Opponent: Northwest University Eagles | Result: W 101-46 |
| Week 6 | Date: Wed 13/12/2023 | Opponent: San Francisco Dons | Result: L 59-62 |
| Week 6 | Date: Sun 17/12/2023 | Opponent: Washington Huskies | Result: L 99-100 |
| Week 7 | Date: Wed 20/12/2023 | Opponent: Louisiana Tech Bulldogs | Result: W 79-73 |
| Week 8 | Date: Sat 30/12/2023 | Opponent: Texas-El Paso Miners | Result: W 73-61 |
| Week 9 | Date: Thu 04/01/2024 | Opponent: Utah Tech Trailblazers | Result: W 70-53 |
| Week 9 | Date: Sat 06/01/2024 | Opponent: California Baptist Lancers | Result: W 48-46 |
| Week 10 | Date: Thu 11/01/2024 | Opponent: Texas Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros | Result: L 80-81 |
| Week 10 | Date: Sat 13/01/2024 | Opponent: Texas-Arlington Mavericks | Result: L 75-80 |
| Week 11 | Date: Thu 18/01/2024 | Opponent: Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks | Result: L 84-89 |
| Week 11 | Date: Sat 20/01/2024 | Opponent: Grand Canyon Antelopes | Result: W 86-79 |
| Week 12 | Date: Fri 26/01/2024 | Opponent: Utah Valley Wolverines | Result: W 62-61 |
| Week 13 | Date: Thu 01/02/2024 | Opponent: Grand Canyon Antelopes | Result: L 88-95 |
| Week 13 | Date: Sat 03/02/2024 | Opponent: California Baptist Lancers | Result: W 61-60 |
| Week 14 | Date: Thu 08/02/2024 | Opponent: Abilene Christian Wildcats | Result: W 75-52 |
| Week 14 | Date: Sat 10/02/2024 | Opponent: Tarleton State Texans | Result: L 77-82 |
| Week 15 | Date: Thu 15/02/2024 | Opponent: Southern Utah Thunderbirds | Result: W 78-68 |
| Week 15 | Date: Sat 17/02/2024 | Opponent: Utah Tech Trailblazers | Result: W 66-65 |
| Week 16 | Date: Thu 22/02/2024 | Opponent: Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks | Result: W 69-49 |
| Week 16 | Date: Sat 24/02/2024 | Opponent: Texas Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros | Result: W 84-56 |
| Week 17 | Date: Thu 29/02/2024 | Opponent: Texas-Arlington Mavericks | Result: L 62-82 |
| Week 18 | Date: Thu 07/03/2024 | Opponent: Abilene Christian Wildcats | Result: L 59-64 |
| Week 18 | Date: Sat 09/03/2024 | Opponent: Tarleton State Texans | Result: L 66-69 |
Post Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Thu 14/03/2024 | Opponent: California Baptist Lancers | Result: W 81-57 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Fri 15/03/2024 | Opponent: Grand Canyon Antelopes | Result: L 72-80 |
| CBI | Date: Sat 23/03/2024 | Opponent: Delaware State Hornets | Result: W 79-66 |
| CBI | Date: Mon 25/03/2024 | Opponent: Evansville Purple Aces | Result: W 71-57 |
| CBI | Date: Tue 26/03/2024 | Opponent: Fairfield Stags | Result: W 75-58 |
| CBI | Date: Wed 27/03/2024 | Opponent: High Point Panthers | Result: W 77-67 |
Home of Seattle Redhawks: KeyArena and Redhawk Center
The Redhawks have called several venues home, with KeyArena and the Redhawk Center being the most notable. KeyArena, with its significant capacity and vibrant atmosphere, has been a cornerstone of the team’s home-court advantage. The smaller Redhawk Center has also hosted numerous memorable games, especially during the renovation phases of KeyArena. These venues have not just been places where games are played; they have been integral to the community’s engagement with the team, fostering a strong fan base and a palpable sense of excitement during game days.