Boise State Basketball: Facts and Highlights

Boise State Basketball

Boise State basketball, representing Boise State University in Boise, Idaho, has a rich history and several interesting facts associated with it. Here are some 'fried facts' (quick, interesting tidbits) about the program:

1. Origins and Early Years

Boise State's basketball program began in 1968 when the school was known as Boise Junior College. The team initially competed at the junior college level before transitioning to NCAA Division I in 1970.

2. Home Court: ExtraMile Arena

The Broncos play their home games at ExtraMile Arena (formerly known as Taco Bell Arena), which has a seating capacity of over 12,000. The arena is known for its loud and passionate fan base, creating a tough environment for visiting teams.

3. Conference Affiliations

Boise State has been a member of multiple conferences over the years, including the Big Sky, Big West, Western Athletic Conference (WAC), and currently the Mountain West Conference (MWC) since 2011. The move to the MWC elevated the program's visibility and competitiveness.

4. NCAA Tournament Appearances

The Broncos have made several appearances in the NCAA Tournament, with their first coming in 1994 under head coach Bobby Dye. Their most recent appearance was in 2023, showcasing the program's growth and consistency in recent years.

5. Notable Players

Chris Childs: Played at Boise State in the late 1980s and went on to have a successful NBA career, primarily with the New York Knicks.

Chandler Hutchison: A first-round NBA Draft pick in 2018 (22nd overall by the Chicago Bulls), Hutchison is one of the most successful players to come out of the program.

Derrick Alston Jr.: A standout player in recent years, Alston was a key figure in the Broncos' resurgence and earned All-Mountain West honors.

6. Historic Wins

Boise State has pulled off several notable upsets, including a win over No. 11 Creighton in the 2022 NCAA Tournament First Four, marking their first NCAA Tournament victory in program history.

7. Rivalries

The Broncos have heated rivalries with other Mountain West teams, particularly San Diego State and UNLV. These matchups often have significant implications for conference standings and postseason play.

8. Coaching Legacy

Leon Rice has been the head coach since 2010 and is the winningest coach in program history. Under his leadership, the team has consistently been competitive in the Mountain West and has made multiple postseason appearances.

9. Unique Court Design

Boise State's basketball court features a distinctive blue and orange color scheme, reflecting the school's colors. The center court logo is iconic and instantly recognizable.

10. Fan Support and 'The Hive'

The student section, known as 'The Hive,' is one of the most energetic in the Mountain West. Their presence and enthusiasm have made ExtraMile Arena a daunting place for opponents.

11. Record-Breaking Moments

In 2022, Boise State set a program record for most wins in a single season (27), highlighting the team's growth and success under Coach Rice.

12. Community Impact

The program is deeply connected to the Boise community, with players and coaches frequently participating in outreach programs and charity events.

Boise State basketball continues to build its legacy as a competitive program in the Mountain West and on the national stage. With a passionate fan base and a commitment to excellence, the future looks bright for the Broncos.

Boise State Basketball: Facts and Highlights

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