Introduction to Air Force Basketball
The U.S. Air Force Academy is home to many outstanding athletic programs, and basketball is no exception. The Air Force Falcons men’s basketball team is a Division I program and a member of the Mountain West Conference. The Falcons have been playing competitive basketball since the school was established in 1955 and have become one of the top programs in the country.
History of the Air Force Basketball Program
The Air Force basketball program began in 1955, the same year the school was established. The first coach was Jim Hatch, who led the team to a 5-14 record in its first season. Since then, the Falcons have gone on to become one of the top programs in the country, with a long history of success.
The team has had many notable coaches over the years, including Bob Spear, Joe Scott, Jeff Reynolds, and Dave Pilipovich. The current head coach is Dave Pilipovich, who has compiled a record of 219-187 since taking over in 2011.
Air Force Basketball Achievements
The Air Force Falcons have had a long history of success, winning the Western Athletic Conference title in 1962 and the Mountain West Conference title in 2006. The Falcons have also made 14 appearances in the NCAA tournament, with their best finish being a Sweet Sixteen appearance in 1969. The team has also made numerous appearances in the National Invitation Tournament, with their best finish being a trip to the Final Four in 1974.
Air Force Basketball Highlights
The Air Force basketball program has had numerous standout players over the years, including Dave Trager, Bob Beckel, Dave Felts, and Chris Sanford. The team has also seen players go on to have successful professional careers, such as Michael Lyons, who was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the 2013 NBA Draft.
Air Force Basketball Facilities
The Air Force Falcons play their home games at the Clune Arena, which opened in 1982. The arena has a capacity of 5,843 and is one of the best basketball facilities in the Mountain West Conference. The arena also hosts numerous other events, such as concerts and other sporting events.
Air Force Basketball Team Roster
The Air Force basketball team has a roster of 15 players, which includes one freshman, three sophomores, four juniors, and seven seniors. The team is led by senior guard Ryan Manning, who is the team’s leading scorer with 14.7 points per game. Other key players include junior guard Kyle Broekhuis, junior forward Lavelle Scottie, sophomore forward Sid Tomes, and freshman guard A.J. Walker.
Air Force Basketball Schedule
The Air Force basketball team plays a competitive schedule each season, including games against many of the top teams in the Mountain West Conference. The team also participates in the annual Air Force Classic, which is a tournament that features teams from across the country. The Falcons also participate in the NCAA tournament and other postseason tournaments.
Air Force Basketball Fans
The Air Force basketball program has a passionate and loyal fan base. The team’s home games are usually sold out, and the fans are some of the most passionate in college basketball. The Falcons also have an active alumni base, which includes former players, coaches, and other supporters of the program.
Does Air Force Have a Basketball Team?
Yes, the Air Force Academy has a men’s basketball team that competes at the Division I level. The team is a member of the Mountain West Conference and has a long history of success. The team has won the Western Athletic Conference title and multiple postseason tournaments, and has had numerous standout players over the years. The Falcons also have a passionate and loyal fan base that supports the team each season.
Conclusion
The Air Force basketball program is one of the most successful and well-respected in the country. The team has had numerous standout players and coaches, and has won numerous championships over the years. The program also has a passionate fan base that supports the team each season. If you’re looking for a top-notch basketball program to follow, the Air Force Falcons are the perfect team to root for.