Celebrating the Heartbeat of College Basketball: Unforgettable Mid-Major Traditions
The Rise of the Sharks: LIU's Inspiring 'Fins Up' Phenomenon
Long Island University underwent a significant transformation in 2019, adopting the Sharks as their new mascot. Despite a challenging 3-26 season in 2023, a remarkable tradition emerged. Students David Pochapin and Cameron Koffman sparked the 'Fins Up' cheer, engaging the audience by yelling the phrase and clapping their hands overhead. This spirited involvement led to fans being dubbed 'The Reef' and the arena becoming 'the Shark Tank,' fostering a deep connection that coincided with the team's victory in the NEC conference this past season, propelling 'Fins Up' into the national spotlight.
Philadelphia's Enduring Legacy: The Historic 'Big 5' Alliance
For over seven decades, Philadelphia basketball has been defined by the 'Big 5' tradition. Established in 1954, this group originally comprised Penn, Temple, La Salle, Saint Joseph's, and Villanova, who competed annually for a championship. With Drexel joining in the 2023-24 season, the format evolved into the Big 5 Classic, culminating in a first-place game. This storied alliance remains a powerful symbol of collegiate basketball heritage, drawing consistent admiration and competitive spirit.
The Ultimate Test of Skill: New Mexico's 'Ramp Ball' Challenge
At The Pit, the home court of the New Mexico Lobos, a fascinating and difficult tradition known as 'Ramp Ball' challenges players to roll a basketball up an exceptionally long ramp and make it stay at the top. This feat, much harder than it appears, has only been mastered by a select few, with just five players, including NBA star Kawhi Leonard, successfully completing it. The challenge adds a unique element of skill and lore to the Lobos' home games.
A Cherished Annual Spectacle: Taylor University's 'Silent Night' Game
Since 1997, Taylor University, an NAIA institution in Indiana, has hosted its annual 'Silent Night' game on the Friday before final exams. Students, often in elaborate costumes, maintain complete silence until the Trojans score their tenth point, at which moment they erupt in cheers and storm the court. The evening concludes with fans singing 'Silent Night.' This beloved tradition has seen the Trojans achieve an impressive 27-1 record. In a similar vein, other schools nationwide celebrate 'toilet paper games,' where fans shower the court with toilet paper after the home team's first basket, further illustrating the creative spirit of college basketball traditions.
The Unrivaled Atmosphere: Grand Canyon University's 'Havocs'
Grand Canyon University boasts one of the most energetic student sections in college basketball, famously known as 'the Havocs.' Self-proclaimed as hosting 'The Biggest Party in College Basketball,' their presence creates an electrifying atmosphere during home games. Notable figures like Donovan Mitchell have praised the Havocs, ranking their enthusiasm above even that of traditional powerhouses like Duke, Michigan State, and Kentucky, cementing their reputation as a truly unparalleled force in collegiate sports fandom.
