The Grand Canyon University (GCU) basketball teams are making history this March as both the men’s and women’s teams secure their spots in the NCAA Tournament for the first time ever. They are both entering the tournament as No. 13 seeds, giving the Lopes the chance to shine against powerhouse opponents. With the men’s team set to face fourth-seeded Maryland and the women’s side matched against Baylor, excitement runs high at GCU as they prepare to take on the challenges of March Madness.
Leading the men’s team is head coach Bryce Drew, who knows all too well what success looks like on this national stage. Drew is no stranger to the NCAA Tournament himself, having led his alma mater Valparaiso to monumental moments during his playing days. He recalls hitting the miraculous buzzer-beater back then against Ole Miss, which still resonates with fans today, as he now seeks to carve out his own legacy as coach.
"This is really special for our university," Drew said, reflecting on the team’s achievements this season. "We’ve got great support and the energy surrounding both programs is phenomenal." Grand Canyon's men's team clinched their spot by defeating top-seeded Utah Valley 89-82 in the WAC tournament championship game, marking the third straight time the Lopes have claimed the title. Now, they hold an overall record of 26-7 as they gear up to face Maryland, who ended their season with a record of 25-8 and was recently ranked 11th by the AP.
The Lopes' match against Maryland will tip-off at 1:35 p.m. ET on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle. The Terrapins, known for their solid lineup, include standout players like freshman Derik Queen, who is expected to be a future NBA pick. The Lopes are viewed as ten-point underdogs, but they’re not intimidated. "Whoever we play, we know they're going to be really good," Drew remarked about Maryland. "Top 10 in the country in defense, top 30 in offense; they have some great pieces."
The Lopes have built their team around experienced talents like Ray Harrison and Tyon Grant-Foster. Harrison averages 11.6 points, and his leadership is invaluable. Freshman Grant-Foster, the 2024 WAC Player of the Year, adds depth with his 14.5-point average. With such talent and experience coming together, the Lopes are eager to showcase their skills on the national stage.
Not to be outdone, GCU's women’s team is also stirring up excitement after claiming their first WAC tournament championship with a nail-biting 65-62 victory over UT Arlington. Their remarkable 30-game win streak has put the Lopes on the map, showcasing their skills and relentless determination throughout the season. "We went two for two. It says a lot about the university and the support they’ve shown to the basketball programs," said head coach Molly Miller, who celebrated the accomplishment with Gatorade baths to commemorate the historic moment.
With a record of 32-2, the women’s team looks to continue their winning ways against fourth-seeded Baylor on March 21, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. Arizona time. The stakes are high, as a win would push their historic win streak to 31 games and deliver them to the Round of 32.
Both teams have shown resilience throughout their journeys leading to March Madness, overcoming injuries and setbacks to become formidable competitors. For the men’s team, the return of key players after injury has proven pivotal, rallying together to defeat strong opponents during the conference championships. "We’re more mature now. It’s about playing basketball and competing. I feel like we can compete with anybody," stated senior guard Collin Moore.
The pressure is intense for the Lopes, who set to face high-caliber opponents, yet this moment is their reward for hard work and perseverance. With the lights of the NCAA Tournament upon them, both Drew and Miller are optimistic and ready.
Fans are eager to see how far GCU can go this March Madness as the Lopes strive to overcome the odds and upset their higher-seeded rivals.
With excitement and anticipation mounting, it is certain Grand Canyon University is ready to leave its mark on the national NCAA Tournament stage this year. The support from fans and the university community reflects the depth of pride connected to this momentous occasion for both teams.
