Andrew Pace
The Grand Canyon University Antelopes men's basketball team is a force to be reckoned with, rising through the ranks to become one of the top college basketball teams in Phoenix, Arizona. With a proud history that includes national championships in 1975, 1978, and 1988 during their time in the NAIA, the team has continued to build on its success since joining NCAA Division I in 2013. Known for their skill and determination, the Antelopes have their sights set on the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship Tournament, aiming to showcase their talent on the biggest stage. Led by head coach Bryce Drew, the team's achievements and rankings continue to impress, solidifying their reputation as a powerhouse in college basketball.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Team Name | Grand Canyon University Antelopes |
| Location | Phoenix, Arizona |
| Home Ground | Global Credit Union Arena |
| Head Coach | Bryce Drew |
| Conference | Western Athletic Conference (WAC) |
| Division | NCAA Division I |
| Past Achievements | NAIA National Champions in 1975, 1978, and 1988 |
| Recent Performance | Advanced to quarterfinals in the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament |
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What You'll Learn
- The Grand Canyon University Antelopes are a successful men's basketball team
- They are based in Phoenix, Arizona
- The team has a history of national success, winning championships in 1975, 1978 and 1988
- The Antelopes are part of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC)
- They play their home games at the Global Credit Union Arena
The Grand Canyon University Antelopes are a successful men's basketball team
The Antelopes have a history of success, dating back to their time in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), where they were national champions in 1975, 1978, and 1988. They made the transition to NCAA Division I in 2013, joining the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). Since then, they have continued to rise in the rankings and achieve success.
In 2016, the Antelopes advanced to the quarterfinals in the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament, showcasing their potential to become a top team. They have appeared in the NCAA Tournament four times since joining Division I, most recently in 2025. This consistent performance highlights their sustained success at the highest level of college basketball.
The Antelopes' success can be attributed to their talented players and dedicated coaching staff, led by head coach Bryce Drew. The team's achievements have brought recognition to Grand Canyon University and established them as a prominent force in men's college basketball. With their determination and skill, the Antelopes have become a team to watch, capturing the attention of basketball fans across the country.
As the Antelopes continue to build on their achievements, they inspire and unite their university community, as well as basketball enthusiasts in Phoenix and beyond. Their journey towards becoming one of the top men's college basketball teams serves as a testament to their hard work, talent, and unwavering team spirit.
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They are based in Phoenix, Arizona
The Grand Canyon University Antelopes men's basketball team is based in Phoenix, Arizona. They represent Grand Canyon University and are a member of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). The Antelopes, as they are nicknamed, play their home games at the Global Credit Union Arena in Phoenix.
The team is led by head coach Bryce Drew, who joined the university in 2013 when the Antelopes made the jump to NCAA Division I. Since then, the team has been rising through the rankings and is considered one of the best men's college basketball teams in Phoenix. During their time in the NAIA, they were national champions in 1975, 1978, and 1988. Since joining Division I in the 2013-14 season, they have appeared in the NCAA Tournament four times, most recently in 2025.
The Antelopes are well-known in Phoenix and have a strong following in the city. They have continued to advance in the rankings and achieve success, making it to the quarterfinals in the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament in March 2016. The team has also qualified for the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship Tournament, also known as March Madness.
Being based in Phoenix, Arizona, the team has access to a large talent pool and a supportive fan base. Phoenix is a vibrant city with a rich sports culture, and the Antelopes have become an integral part of the local community. The team's success has brought attention and pride to the city, and they are supported by many local businesses and organizations.
The Grand Canyon University Antelopes men's basketball team has established itself as a prominent force in Phoenix, Arizona's sports scene, and they continue to strive for excellence and bring glory to their city and university.
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The team has a history of national success, winning championships in 1975, 1978 and 1988
The Grand Canyon Antelopes men's basketball team has a rich history of success, with multiple national championship wins to their name. The team represents Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona, and plays in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).
The Antelopes have experienced significant triumphs throughout their existence, most notably securing three NAIA national championships in 1975, 1978, and 1988. These victories cemented their legacy and contributed to their reputation as a formidable basketball program. The 1988 championship was particularly noteworthy, as the team was coached by former NBA star and coach Paul Westphal, who guided them to a remarkable 37-6 record during his two seasons at Grand Canyon.
Prior to their success in the NAIA, the Antelopes' basketball journey began in 1949 when the college hired Howard Mansfield as the coach of their first-ever sponsored sports team. They competed in the NAIA through the 1989-90 season, achieving remarkable feats along the way, including multiple NAIA First-Team All-American honours for players like Bayard Forrest.
Following their time in the NAIA, the Grand Canyon Antelopes transitioned to the NCAA Division II for the 1990-91 season, showcasing their adaptability and determination to thrive at the next level. This move set the stage for the team to continue their winning ways and pursue even greater accomplishments.
In recent years, the Antelopes have continued to climb the ranks, advancing to the NCAA Division I level in 2013-14 and making their first Division I NCAA Tournament appearance in 2021. They have since appeared in the NCAA Tournament three more times, including in 2024 and 2025, showcasing their consistency and determination to remain among the elite basketball programs in the nation.
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The Antelopes are part of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC)
The Grand Canyon University Antelopes men's basketball team is a force to be reckoned with in Phoenix, Arizona. The team is part of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), a testament to their skill and competitiveness. The Antelopes, also known as the Lopes, joined the WAC on July 1, 2013, marking their entry into NCAA Division I. This move elevated their status and provided a platform for their talent to shine.
Prior to joining the WAC, the Antelopes had a successful run in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). They claimed the NAIA national championship title an impressive three times: in 1975, 1978, and 1988. Their dominance in the NAIA paved the way for their transition to NCAA Division I, where they have continued to excel and make their mark.
Since joining the WAC and competing in NCAA Division I, the Antelopes have proven their mettle time and again. They have appeared in the NCAA Tournament an impressive four times, with their most recent appearance being in 2025. This consistent performance has solidified their reputation as a top men's college basketball team in Phoenix and a team to watch on a national level.
The Antelopes' success can be attributed to their dedication, teamwork, and strong leadership. Head coach Bryce Drew has played a pivotal role in guiding the team to victory. The team's home games are played at the Global Credit Union Arena, where they are cheered on by their loyal fans and supporters.
As the Antelopes continue to climb the ranks, they are setting their sights on even greater achievements. With their talent, determination, and track record of success, there is no doubt that the Grand Canyon University Antelopes will continue to make waves in the world of college basketball. Their journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a source of pride for their university and community.
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They play their home games at the Global Credit Union Arena
The Grand Canyon University Antelopes men's basketball team, also known as the GCU Lopes, plays its home games at the Global Credit Union Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. The arena, originally named the GCU Arena, is a multi-purpose entertainment and athletics facility owned and operated by Grand Canyon University. It was opened on September 2, 2011, and underwent a massive remodel from 2014 to 2015 to expand its seating capacity from 5,000 to 7,000.
The Global Credit Union Arena is not just a venue for basketball games but also hosts a variety of events, including theatre productions, concerts, worship services, speaking engagements, and commencement ceremonies. The arena features large windows that provide natural light, an outdoor balcony with views of the Camelback Road campus, and only 42 steps from event level to concourse level, ensuring that every seat offers a good view.
The address of the Global Credit Union Arena is 3300 W. Camelback Road, Building 38, Phoenix, and it is part of the university's $200 million campus expansion and growth project. Tickets for events can be purchased at the box office, online, or by phone, although it is important to note that the arena does not grant refunds or exchanges for previously purchased tickets.
The GCU men's basketball team has been rising in the rankings and achieving success, including a win against No. 25 San Diego State in 2023, which was the program's first top-25 victory. The team has a rich history, with national championships in 1975, 1978, and 1988 during their time in the NAIA. They made the jump to NCAA Division I in 2013 and have since appeared in the NCAA Tournament four times, most recently in 2025.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the Grand Canyon University Antelopes men's basketball team is ranked. They are a member of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) and are led by head coach Bryce Drew.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) uses the Rating Percentage Index (RPI) to rank all teams in its Division I sports.
The Antelopes are considered a team to beat, advancing to the quarterfinals in the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament. They have also appeared four times in the NCAA Tournament since joining Division I in 2013-14, most recently in 2025. During their time in the NAIA, they were national champions in 1975, 1978, and 1988.
The Grand Canyon University Antelopes play their home games at the Global Credit Union Arena in Phoenix, Arizona.
