Embark on the captivating journey of the VCU Rams, a team synonymous with determination, spirit, and a unique cultural presence in NCAA basketball. The story of the VCU Rams is not just about basketball; it’s a narrative woven with threads of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment. From their humble inception to their emergence as a force in college basketball, the Rams have carved out a distinct identity, marked by unforgettable moments and groundbreaking achievements.
The Historical Tapestry of VCU Rams
Since its inception in 1968, the VCU basketball program has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a modest participant to a respected powerhouse in NCAA basketball. Over the years, the Rams have developed a reputation for their gritty, high-energy play. They made a significant mark in the Colonial Athletic Association before transitioning to the Atlantic 10 Conference. This journey has been punctuated by moments of triumph and growth, shaping the team’s identity and legacy.
The Golden Era: The Shaka Smart Years
The tenure of Coach Shaka Smart from 2009 to 2015 represents a defining era in VCU’s basketball history. Smart’s “Havoc” basketball philosophy, emphasizing a relentless defensive style and a quick-paced offense, became synonymous with VCU basketball. This era was highlighted by key players like Joey Rodriguez and Jamie Skeen, who were instrumental in the team’s extraordinary journey to the 2011 Final Four. This period not only brought unprecedented success but also solidified the Rams’ reputation as a formidable force in college basketball.
Legendary Figures in VCU Rams History
VCU’s history is adorned with legendary figures who have left an indelible mark on the program. Shaka Smart stands out as the architect of the Havoc defense and the driving force behind the 2011 Final Four team. Calvin Duncan, a star of the 1980s and later an NBA draft pick, remains a revered figure in VCU basketball lore. Eric Maynor, remembered for his game-winning shot against Duke in the 2007 NCAA Tournament, is another iconic player who embodies the Rams’ fighting spirit.
A Game to Remember
A standout moment in VCU’s storied history is the 2011 NCAA Tournament Elite Eight game against Kansas. In this David vs. Goliath matchup, the underdog Rams displayed exceptional skill and heart, securing a historic victory that propelled them into the Final Four. This game not only showcased the team’s talent and tenacity but also marked a pinnacle moment in the program’s history, etching the Rams’ name in the annals of NCAA basketball greatness.
VCU Rams [year] Schedule
Regular Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Date: Mon 06/11/2023 | Opponent: McNeese St. Cowboys | Result: L 65-76 |
| Week 1 | Date: Fri 10/11/2023 | Opponent: Samford Bulldogs | Result: W 75-65 |
| Week 2 | Date: Wed 15/11/2023 | Opponent: Radford Highlanders | Result: W 73-50 |
| Week 2 | Date: Sat 18/11/2023 | Opponent: Seattle Redhawks | Result: W 60-56 |
| Week 3 | Date: Thu 23/11/2023 | Opponent: Iowa State Cyclones | Result: L 64-68 |
| Week 3 | Date: Fri 24/11/2023 | Opponent: Boise St. Broncos | Result: L 61-65 |
| Week 3 | Date: Sun 26/11/2023 | Opponent: Penn St. Nittany Lions | Result: W 86-74 |
| Week 4 | Date: Fri 01/12/2023 | Opponent: Norfolk State Spartans | Result: L 60-63 |
| Week 5 | Date: Wed 06/12/2023 | Opponent: Memphis Tigers | Result: L 80-85 |
| Week 5 | Date: Sun 10/12/2023 | Opponent: Alcorn St. Braves | Result: W 86-58 |
| Week 6 | Date: Sat 16/12/2023 | Opponent: Temple Owls | Result: W 87-78 |
| Week 7 | Date: Fri 22/12/2023 | Opponent: Maryland-Eastern Shore Hawks | Result: W 75-51 |
| Week 8 | Date: Sat 30/12/2023 | Opponent: Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs | Result: W 87-73 |
| Week 9 | Date: Wed 03/01/2024 | Opponent: St. Bonaventure Bonnies | Result: L 78-89 |
| Week 9 | Date: Sat 06/01/2024 | Opponent: George Washington Revolutionaries | Result: L 82-84 |
| Week 10 | Date: Tue 09/01/2024 | Opponent: George Mason Patriots | Result: W 54-50 |
| Week 10 | Date: Sat 13/01/2024 | Opponent: La Salle Explorers | Result: W 71-65 |
| Week 11 | Date: Fri 19/01/2024 | Opponent: Saint Louis Billikens | Result: W 85-61 |
| Week 12 | Date: Tue 23/01/2024 | Opponent: Loyola-Chicago Ramblers | Result: W 74-67 |
| Week 12 | Date: Sat 27/01/2024 | Opponent: Davidson Wildcats | Result: W 63-58 |
| Week 13 | Date: Tue 30/01/2024 | Opponent: St. Bonaventure Bonnies | Result: L 62-67 |
| Week 13 | Date: Sat 03/02/2024 | Opponent: Richmond Spiders | Result: W 63-52 |
| Week 14 | Date: Tue 06/02/2024 | Opponent: Fordham Rams | Result: W 75-60 |
| Week 14 | Date: Fri 09/02/2024 | Opponent: Dayton Flyers | Result: W 49-47 |
| Week 15 | Date: Fri 16/02/2024 | Opponent: Saint Louis Billikens | Result: W 95-85 |
| Week 16 | Date: Tue 20/02/2024 | Opponent: Massachusetts Minutemen | Result: L 52-74 |
| Week 16 | Date: Sun 25/02/2024 | Opponent: Saint Joseph’s Hawks | Result: W 73-69 |
| Week 17 | Date: Wed 28/02/2024 | Opponent: Rhode Island Rams | Result: W 88-67 |
| Week 17 | Date: Sat 02/03/2024 | Opponent: Richmond Spiders | Result: L 76-79 |
| Week 18 | Date: Tue 05/03/2024 | Opponent: Duquesne Dukes | Result: L 59-69 |
| Week 18 | Date: Fri 08/03/2024 | Opponent: Dayton Flyers | Result: L 86-91 |
Post Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Wed 13/03/2024 | Opponent: Fordham Rams | Result: W 69-62 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Thu 14/03/2024 | Opponent: Massachusetts Minutemen | Result: W 73-59 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Sat 16/03/2024 | Opponent: Saint Joseph’s Hawks | Result: W 66-60 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Sun 17/03/2024 | Opponent: Duquesne Dukes | Result: L 51-57 |
| NIT | Date: Wed 20/03/2024 | Opponent: Villanova Wildcats | Result: W 70-61 |
| NIT | Date: Sun 24/03/2024 | Opponent: South Florida Bulls | Result: W 70-65 |
| NIT | Date: Wed 27/03/2024 | Opponent: Utah Utes | Result: L 54-74 |
Home of VCU Rams: The Stuart C. Siegel Center
The Stuart C. Siegel Center, opened in 1999 and fondly known as “The Stu,” stands as a bastion for the Rams. Renowned for its vibrant and loyal fan base, the arena is feared by visiting teams and cherished by the home crowd. It’s not just a sports venue; it’s a symbol of the school’s basketball heritage, echoing with the cheers of countless memorable games and reflecting the team’s indomitable spirit.