Raiders’ NCAA appearance brings Wright State into the national spotlight

Several hundred fans filled the Student Union Atrium to watch the men’s basketball team take on Virginia in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on March 20.

Wright State University’s return to the NCAA Tournament delivered more than a memorable game — it sparked pride across campus and far beyond, uniting fans in a shared moment on the national stage.

From packed watch parties at the Dayton Campus Student Union and Lake Campus Boathouse to gatherings in Beavercreek and Philadelphia, students, faculty, staff and alumni came together to cheer on the Raiders during their March Madness appearance.

Several hundred fans filled the Student Union Atrium for a campus watch party, celebrating every basket as if they were courtside at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Though the Raiders ultimately fell to Virginia 82–73, fans expressed pride in the players’ string showing, relishing the March Madness experience.

The atmosphere left an impression on those who showed up to watch.

“Nothing is guaranteed so you try to take advantage of this season,” first-year finance major Sean Phipps said after the watch party. “It’s something you really appreciate while it’s happening.”

Excitement had been building for weeks. During the Horizon League Championship, the university awarded one-year full scholarships to three students during a halftime promotion, adding to the energy surrounding the team’s postseason push.

Wright State’s men’s basketball team secured its NCAA bid after winning both the Horizon League regular-season title and tournament championship — a first for the men’s basketball program. Fans marked the milestone at a Selection Sunday watch party in the Student Union.

For 2011 alum Sam Bernard, who traveled to Indianapolis for the Horizon League Championship, the experience captured the spirit of Raider Nation.

“Being in Indy showed me what makes Raider basketball special,” he said. “You’re surrounded by fans you might never talk to at home games, but on the road, you share every moment — the nerves, the excitement, the joy. Winning the tournament just made that bond even stronger.”

Wright State administrators and staff traveled to Philadelphia to join alumni to support the Raiders at Xfinity Mobile Arena.

On the court, the Raiders matched up with Virginia in a hard-fought game that featured 11 ties and 18 lead changes. Wright State led by five at halftime before the Cavaliers pulled away late.

“I’m so incredibly proud of these young men,” said Joylynn Brown, director of athletics. “They took advantage of the spotlight and shined. And I can tell you this, Virginia definitely knows who Wright State is now. This team has put us on the map.”

The team’s success resonated across the region.

Greene County Commissioners declared March 20, 2026, as Wright State Day, citing the team’s dedication, teamwork and sportsmanship as an inspiration to the community. The team, commissioners said, “exemplifies their spirit of hard work, commitment and sportsmanship and serves as an inspiration to students, families and aspiring athletes across the county.”

University staff and administrators, including President Sue Edwards, traveled to Philadelphia to join alumni to support the Raiders in person.

“Watching these players compete, especially their resilience, grit and determination in the Horizon League Championship finals, has been inspiring,” Edwards said. “They never counted themselves out, and that’s what our students are about — digging in and getting the job done. I’ve heard from so many people about how proud they are of this team, not just for reaching the NCAA Tournament, but for the way they play — with heart and a clear bond with each other.”

Head coach Clint Sargent rallying the men’s basketball team during the NCAA Tournament.

Head coach Clint Sargent reflected on both the disappointment of the loss and the significance of the moment.

“It’s what you dream about — to give back to the university that’s given me and my family so much and a fan base that’s given us so much,” Sargent said. “Difficult game to lose with how we competed. It’s always abrupt how it ends. But these guys have given me an awful lot, and I’m certainly proud to be their coach.”

“It’s the best part of the job,” he added.