San Francisco Dons

Are part of the West Coast Conference, were established in 1906, and their home arena is War Memorial Gymnasium, University of San Francisco in San Francisco, California.

Intriguing Facts About the San Francisco Dons

The San Francisco Dons’ history is replete with remarkable achievements and trailblazing moments. Notably, the Dons secured back-to-back NCAA championships in 1955 and 1956, a testament to their dominance in the sport. These years were marked by the towering presence of Bill Russell, whose defensive skills revolutionized basketball. The team also boasts of two undefeated seasons during this period, showcasing their unparalleled prowess on the court.

A pioneer in racial integration, the Dons featured three African-American starters in the 1950s, a bold move during a time of widespread segregation in sports. Furthermore, the Dons hold an impressive record for the third-longest winning streak in Division I men’s basketball, with a staggering 60 consecutive wins, a feat that stands as a testament to their consistency and skill.

The Historical Tapestry of the San Francisco Dons

The origins of the San Francisco Dons’ basketball program trace back to the early 20th century, marking a gradual ascent to prominence. However, it was in the 1950s, under the guidance of coach Phil Woolpert, that the Dons truly emerged as a national powerhouse. This era was illuminated by the brilliance of Bill Russell and K.C. Jones, who together propelled the team to new heights. Their impact was not just in terms of victories and titles, but also in how they changed the game itself, introducing strategies and styles of play that were ahead of their time.

The Golden Era

The golden era of the San Francisco Dons is inextricably linked to the tenure of Bill Russell and the strategic vision of Coach Phil Woolpert. Woolpert’s coaching philosophy, which emphasized defense and teamwork, was revolutionary for its time and became a blueprint for success in basketball. The era was defined by Russell’s dominance in rebounding and shot-blocking, and K.C. Jones’ all-around excellence on the court. Together, they led the Dons to historic championships and left an indelible mark on the sport.

Legendary Figures in San Francisco Dons History

The history of the San Francisco Dons is marked by legendary figures who have left an indelible mark on the program. Bill Russell stands out not just for his athletic prowess but for his impact on the game’s defensive aspects. Coach Phil Woolpert’s innovative strategies and leadership were crucial in the team’s golden era. K.C. Jones, known for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership, was instrumental in the team’s success.

A Game to Remember

The 1955 NCAA Championship game remains one of the most memorable in the history of the San Francisco Dons. In this game, the team, led by Bill Russell, defeated La Salle in a display of skill and teamwork that epitomized the Dons’ dominance in college basketball. This victory was not just about winning a title; it was a statement of the team’s excellence and a pivotal moment in their storied history.

San Francisco Dons 2024 Schedule

Regular Season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result
Week 1	Date: Mon 06/11/2023	Opponent: Bethesda Flames	Result: W 128-59
Week 1	Date: Thu 09/11/2023	Opponent: St. Francis (PA) Red Flash	Result: W 84-52
Week 1	Date: Sun 12/11/2023	Opponent: Boise St. Broncos	Result: L 58-63
Week 2	Date: Fri 17/11/2023	Opponent: Grand Canyon Lopes	Result: L 72-76
Week 2	Date: Sun 19/11/2023	Opponent: DePaul Blue Demons	Result: W 70-54
Week 3	Date: Wed 22/11/2023	Opponent: Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons	Result: W 76-60
Week 3	Date: Sun 26/11/2023	Opponent: Minnesota Golden Gophers	Result: W 76-58
Week 4	Date: Sun 03/12/2023	Opponent: Arizona State Sun Devils	Result: L 61-72
Week 5	Date: Wed 06/12/2023	Opponent: Vanderbilt Commodores	Result: W 73-60
Week 6	Date: Mon 11/12/2023	Opponent: New Orleans Privateers	Result: W 85-72
Week 6	Date: Wed 13/12/2023	Opponent: Seattle Redhawks	Result: W 62-59
Week 6	Date: Sat 16/12/2023	Opponent: Utah St. Aggies	Result: L 53-54
Week 7	Date: Wed 20/12/2023	Opponent: Northern Arizona Lumberjacks	Result: W 91-51
Week 7	Date: Fri 22/12/2023	Opponent: Fresno St. Bulldogs	Result: W 77-57
Week 8	Date: Sat 30/12/2023	Opponent: Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils	Result: W 92-42
Week 9	Date: Thu 04/01/2024	Opponent: Pacific Tigers	Result: W 92-88
Week 10	Date: Thu 11/01/2024	Opponent: San Diego Toreros	Result: W 83-63
Week 10	Date: Sat 13/01/2024	Opponent: Portland Pilots	Result: W 96-69
Week 11	Date: Thu 18/01/2024	Opponent: Loyola Marymount Lions	Result: W 90-74
Week 11	Date: Sat 20/01/2024	Opponent: Saint Mary’s Gaels	Result: L 60-77
Week 12	Date: Thu 25/01/2024	Opponent: Gonzaga Bulldogs	Result: L 72-77
Week 12	Date: Sat 27/01/2024	Opponent: Portland Pilots	Result: W 76-64
Week 13	Date: Thu 01/02/2024	Opponent: San Diego Toreros	Result: W 95-79
Week 13	Date: Sat 03/02/2024	Opponent: Pacific Tigers	Result: W 79-73
Week 14	Date: Thu 08/02/2024	Opponent: Pepperdine Waves	Result: W 80-74
Week 14	Date: Sat 10/02/2024	Opponent: Santa Clara Broncos	Result: W 71-70
Week 15	Date: Sat 17/02/2024	Opponent: Loyola Marymount Lions	Result: W 82-59
Week 16	Date: Tue 20/02/2024	Opponent: Saint Mary’s Gaels	Result: L 66-70
Week 16	Date: Sat 24/02/2024	Opponent: Pepperdine Waves	Result: W 92-68
Week 17	Date: Thu 29/02/2024	Opponent: Gonzaga Bulldogs	Result: L 68-86
Week 17	Date: Sat 02/03/2024	Opponent: Santa Clara Broncos	Result: L 62-69

Post Season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result
Conf. Tournament	Date: Sun 10/03/2024	Opponent: Portland Pilots	Result: W 72-51
Conf. Tournament	Date: Mon 11/03/2024	Opponent: Gonzaga Bulldogs	Result: L 77-89
NIT	Date: Wed 20/03/2024	Opponent: Cincinnati Bearcats	Result: L 72-73

Home of the San Francisco Dons: War Memorial Gymnasium

The War Memorial Gymnasium, the bastion of the Dons since 1958, is more than just a sports venue; it’s a repository of history and tradition. Known for its intimate and electric atmosphere, it has been the site of many of the team’s most memorable moments. The gymnasium’s historical significance and the passionate support of the fans make it a formidable arena for any visiting team.