In the annals of NCAA basketball, the St. Bonaventure Bonnies stand out not just for their athletic prowess but also for their indomitable spirit and unwavering tenacity. Representing St. Bonaventure University in Olean, New York, this team has cultivated a rich basketball tradition marked by significant achievements and an enduring culture of teamwork and resilience. Through the years, the Bonnies have not only competed but also left a lasting impression on the hearts of basketball enthusiasts.
Intriguing Facts About the St. Bonaventure Bonnies
The St. Bonaventure Bonnies’ history is dotted with fascinating tidbits that paint a picture of a team steeped in tradition and triumph. The origins of the team trace back to 1902, starting initially with a group of former football players. A testament to their home-court dominance is the remarkable record of winning 99 consecutive games at the Olean Armory before 1961.
The team underwent a name change from the original Brown Indians to the Bonnies, reflecting a shift in identity. Notably, the program has produced 11 All-Americans, including the legendary Bob Lanier, and the Bonnies clinched their first outright Atlantic 10 regular season title in 2021, a milestone in their illustrious history.
The Historical Tapestry of the St. Bonaventure Bonnies
The basketball program at St. Bonaventure began modestly in 1902 but saw substantial growth in the post-World War I era. Coaches like Anslem Kreiger and Ed Milkovich played pivotal roles in elevating the team’s status, leading to its early NIT appearances in the 1950s. This period marked the foundation of a basketball legacy that would see the team evolve into a competitive force, ultimately making its mark in the NCAA tournament during the 1960s and beyond.
The Golden Era
The golden era of St. Bonaventure basketball is often attributed to the era under Coach Larry Weise from 1962 to 1973. Weise’s leadership brought the team to the forefront of college basketball, including multiple NCAA tournament appearances. The pinnacle of this era was in 1970, with the team, led by the future NBA great Bob Lanier, reaching the NCAA tournament and being considered strong contenders for the national title. This period is remembered not just for the successes but also for the heartbreaking injury to Lanier, which significantly impacted their Final Four journey.
The Current Landscape
In recent times, under the guidance of Coach Mark Schmidt, the Bonnies have sustained their tradition of excellence. The team has consistently achieved 20-win seasons and has marked its presence in significant tournaments. The 2021-22 season was particularly noteworthy as the Bonnies reached the NIT Final Four, a feat that underlines their ongoing prowess and relevance in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
Legendary Figures in St. Bonaventure Bonnies History
Several individuals have left an indelible mark on the Bonnies’ history. Bob Lanier stands out as a pivotal figure, leading the team during its 1970 Final Four run and later achieving NBA fame. Coach Larry Weise’s tenure is remembered for catapulting the team to new heights. Other notable figures include players like Tom Stith, Ken Murray, and Andrew Nicholson, each contributing significantly to the team’s storied legacy.
A Game to Remember
Among the many memorable games in Bonnies history, the 1970 East regional final stands out. In this game, they secured a hard-fought victory but suffered a significant setback with Lanier’s injury, which dramatically affected their performance in the Final Four. Another unforgettable moment was the 2014 A-10 tournament game, where Jordan Gathers’ buzzer-beater shot led to an upset victory over Saint Louis, encapsulating the drama and excitement of college basketball.
St. Bonaventure Bonnies [year] Schedule
Regular Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Date: Mon 06/11/2023 | Opponent: Longwood Lancers | Result: W 73-69 |
| Week 1 | Date: Sat 11/11/2023 | Opponent: Canisius Golden Griffins | Result: L 67-70 |
| Week 2 | Date: Thu 16/11/2023 | Opponent: Oklahoma State Cowboys | Result: W 66-64 |
| Week 2 | Date: Fri 17/11/2023 | Opponent: Auburn Tigers | Result: L 60-77 |
| Week 3 | Date: Wed 22/11/2023 | Opponent: Bucknell Bison | Result: W 67-61 |
| Week 3 | Date: Sat 25/11/2023 | Opponent: Miami (OH) RedHawks | Result: W 90-60 |
| Week 4 | Date: Sat 02/12/2023 | Opponent: Buffalo Bulls | Result: W 80-65 |
| Week 5 | Date: Wed 06/12/2023 | Opponent: Niagara Purple Eagles | Result: W 94-60 |
| Week 5 | Date: Sat 09/12/2023 | Opponent: Siena Saints | Result: W 89-56 |
| Week 6 | Date: Sat 16/12/2023 | Opponent: Florida Atlantic Owls | Result: L 54-64 |
| Week 7 | Date: Fri 22/12/2023 | Opponent: Binghamton Bearcats | Result: W 90-64 |
| Week 8 | Date: Sat 30/12/2023 | Opponent: Akron Zips | Result: W 62-61 |
| Week 9 | Date: Wed 03/01/2024 | Opponent: VCU Rams | Result: W 89-78 |
| Week 9 | Date: Sat 06/01/2024 | Opponent: Richmond Spiders | Result: L 54-65 |
| Week 10 | Date: Sat 13/01/2024 | Opponent: Fordham Rams | Result: L 74-80 |
| Week 11 | Date: Wed 17/01/2024 | Opponent: Rhode Island Rams | Result: W 99-64 |
| Week 11 | Date: Sat 20/01/2024 | Opponent: George Mason Patriots | Result: L 60-69 |
| Week 12 | Date: Tue 23/01/2024 | Opponent: Duquesne Dukes | Result: L 50-54 |
| Week 12 | Date: Fri 26/01/2024 | Opponent: Saint Joseph’s Hawks | Result: W 91-72 |
| Week 13 | Date: Tue 30/01/2024 | Opponent: VCU Rams | Result: W 67-62 |
| Week 13 | Date: Fri 02/02/2024 | Opponent: Dayton Flyers | Result: L 71-76 |
| Week 14 | Date: Wed 07/02/2024 | Opponent: Massachusetts Minutemen | Result: W 79-73 |
| Week 14 | Date: Sat 10/02/2024 | Opponent: Duquesne Dukes | Result: L 69-75 |
| Week 15 | Date: Wed 14/02/2024 | Opponent: Fordham Rams | Result: W 85-67 |
| Week 15 | Date: Sat 17/02/2024 | Opponent: Davidson Wildcats | Result: W 81-80 |
| Week 16 | Date: Wed 21/02/2024 | Opponent: La Salle Explorers | Result: L 59-72 |
| Week 16 | Date: Sat 24/02/2024 | Opponent: Massachusetts Minutemen | Result: W 75-67 |
| Week 17 | Date: Tue 27/02/2024 | Opponent: Loyola-Chicago Ramblers | Result: W 79-64 |
| Week 18 | Date: Wed 06/03/2024 | Opponent: George Washington Revolutionaries | Result: L 75-86 |
| Week 18 | Date: Sat 09/03/2024 | Opponent: Saint Louis Billikens | Result: L 65-73 |
Post Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Wed 13/03/2024 | Opponent: La Salle Explorers | Result: W 75-73 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Thu 14/03/2024 | Opponent: Loyola-Chicago Ramblers | Result: W 75-74 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Sat 16/03/2024 | Opponent: Duquesne Dukes | Result: L 60-70 |
Home of St. Bonaventure Bonnies: Reilly Center
The Reilly Center, opened in 1966, serves as the hallowed ground for St. Bonaventure basketball. Named after Carroll “Mike” Reilly, it’s renowned for its electrifying atmosphere, making it one of the toughest places to play in college basketball. The center’s significance extends beyond just being a sports venue; it is a symbol of the Bonnies’ basketball heritage and a rallying point for the community.