A History of Southern Illinois University Basketball
The Southern Illinois Salukis men's basketball team proudly represents Southern Illinois University Carbondale, located in Carbondale, Illinois. As members of NCAA Division I, the Salukis showcase their talent and determination on their home court at Banterra Center. The Salukis compete in the NCAA Division 1, and they play their home games at Banterra Center. As of March 2024, former South Dakota State and Wright State coach, Scott Nagy, has become the newest head coach of the Southern Illinois basketball program. This article delves into the rich history of the program, highlighting its achievements, notable figures, and its journey through various leagues and tournaments.
Early Years and NAIA Success
Prior to joining the NCAA, the Salukis showcased their prowess in the NAIA men's basketball league. Appearing five times, with a combined tournament record of 9 wins and 4 losses. Their combined record is 9-4. The Salukis have appeared in five NAIA Division I tournaments. Most notable tournament appearances came in 1945, in which the Salukis finished third, and then the following year in the 1946 tournament where the Salukis were NAIA national champions.
NIT Triumph in 1967
A significant milestone in the program's history came in 1967 when SIU, led by guard Walt Frazier, who went on to be named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History, won the National Invitation Tournament under coach Jack Hartman. At the time, the tournament was considered much more prestigious than it is today. The Salukis were in their final season members of the College Division[2] (now Division II) and became the only non-Division I/University Division team to win the NIT. After the NCAA began operating the NIT in 2006, non-Division I teams were no longer eligible to participate.
The Salukis have appeared in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) nine times. Their combined record is 8-8.
NCAA Tournament Appearances
From 1993 to 1995, SIU advanced to three straight NCAA Division I Tournaments. The Salukis have appeared in the NCAA Division I Tournament ten times. The Salukis have appeared in the NCAA Division II Tournament seven times.
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Recent Games and Player Highlights
In recent games, Damien Mayo Jr. has been a standout player, scoring 23 points in Southern Illinois' 81-67 win over Evansville on Sunday. Mayo also scored 22 points as Southern Illinois took down Drake 66-61 on Wednesday to hand the Bulldogs their seventh-straight defeat. Quel'Ron House also had 21 points in Southern Illinois' 59-57 win against Northern Iowa on Saturday. House also scored 12 points in Southern Illinois' 66-55 victory against Indiana State on Wednesday night. Rolyns Aligbe's 18 points helped Southern Illinois defeat Evansville 86-60 on Thursday. However, Jaquan Johnson scored 24 points to lead Bradley to a 70-60 victory over Southern Illinois on Sunday.
Coaches Who Made an Impact
After achieving success at SIU, former coaches Bruce Weber and Matt Painter accepted head coaching positions at schools in the Big Ten. As of March 2024, former South Dakota State and Wright State coach, Scott Nagy, has become the newest head coach of the Southern Illinois basketball program.
Tournament Appearances
The Salukis have participated in numerous tournaments throughout their history, showcasing their talent and determination on a national stage. These appearances include:
10 St. UnionEvansvilleNortheasternMount St. Concordia (IL)Central MichiganWashington-St. Joe C.
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