Florida Atlantic Owls

The Owls’ are beating opponents by an average of 12.7 points per game, which ranks 11th in the nation.
florida atlantic owls

For the first time in school history, FAU is ranked in the AP Top 25. The Owls are 19-1 and ranked 21st in the country. FAU’s lone loss came to Ole Miss early in the 2022-23 season. The Owls’ program has only been playing Division I basketball since 1988 and has just one NCAA tournament appearance. That came back in 2002 when FAU was a member of the Atlantic Sun Conference. 

Sophomore G Johnell Davis (13.4 ppg) is the Owls leading scorer. FAU ranks in the top-50 in scoring (76.6 ppg), scoring defense (63.6), and rebounding (38.6 rpg). The Owls’ are beating opponents by an average of 12.7 points per game, which ranks 11th in the nation. The problem for FAU is they play in Conference-USA and haven’t played the toughest of schedules. Still, the Owls are unbeaten in conference play and will be the No. 1 seed in the C-USA tournament. They will be favored to get to the Big Dance.

Intriguing Facts About the Florida Atlantic Owls

The Florida Atlantic Owls’ basketball program is rich with lesser-known yet fascinating facts. The team’s inception dates back to the 1988–89 season, marking the start of a journey from NCAA Division II to Division I in a remarkably short span of five years. Despite facing a coaching carousel, the program found stability and success under the leadership of Dusty May, who led them to their first Final Four appearance in 2023. This milestone is a testament to the team’s growth and strategic prowess. The Owls play their home games at Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena, a venue with a modest capacity of 2,900, offering an intimate and formidable home-court advantage.

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The Historical Tapestry of the Florida Atlantic Owls

The Owls’ basketball story began in earnest in 1988, competing initially in NCAA Division II. The rapid transition to Division I by 1993 was a significant leap, marking their entry into the Atlantic Sun Conference. Over the years, the Owls have been part of different conferences, including the Sun Belt and Conference USA. Each period in their history has been characterized by gradual growth, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. This journey has shaped the team’s identity and laid a strong foundation for future success.

The Golden Era: Dusty May and the 2023 Final Four Run

The appointment of Coach Dusty May in 2018 heralded a new era for the Owls, one characterized by a focus on teamwork, strategic play, and resilience. May’s coaching philosophy, emphasizing unity and a strong defensive mindset, played a pivotal role in the team’s transformation. The 2023 season, in particular, was a watershed moment for the program, as the Owls achieved their first-ever Final Four appearance in NCAA history. This era not only brought unprecedented success but also instilled a belief in the team that they could compete at the highest levels of college basketball.

Legendary Figures in Florida Atlantic Owls History

Throughout their history, the Florida Atlantic Owls have been shaped by several key figures, including influential coaches and standout players. Coaches like Dusty May have left an indelible mark on the program, leading the team to historic heights. The contributions of these individuals have not only enhanced the team’s performance but also enriched the program’s legacy.

A Game to Remember

The 2023 Elite Eight game against Kansas State is etched in the memory of Florida Atlantic Owls fans. This 79-76 victory was not just a game; it was a symbol of the team’s growth, resilience, and fighting spirit. It marked their entry into the Final Four, a historic achievement for the program. The game’s significance goes beyond the scoreline, representing a milestone in the Owls’ basketball journey.

Florida Atlantic Owls 2024 Schedule

Regular Season

Week Date Opponent Result
Week 1 Date: Wed 08/11/2023 Opponent: Loyola-Chicago Ramblers Result: W 75-62
Week 2 Date: Tue 14/11/2023 Opponent: Eastern Michigan Eagles Result: W 100-57
Week 2 Date: Sat 18/11/2023 Opponent: Bryant Bulldogs Result: L 52-61
Week 3 Date: Thu 23/11/2023 Opponent: Butler Bulldogs Result: W 91-86
Week 3 Date: Fri 24/11/2023 Opponent: Texas A&M Aggies Result: W 96-89
Week 3 Date: Sun 26/11/2023 Opponent: Virginia Tech Hokies Result: W 84-50
Week 4 Date: Thu 30/11/2023 Opponent: Liberty Flames Result: W 83-58
Week 4 Date: Sat 02/12/2023 Opponent: Charleston Cougars Result: W 90-74
Week 5 Date: Tue 05/12/2023 Opponent: Illinois Fighting Illini Result: L 89-98
Week 6 Date: Wed 13/12/2023 Opponent: Florida International Panthers Result: W 94-60
Week 6 Date: Sat 16/12/2023 Opponent: St. Bonaventure Bonnies Result: W 64-54
Week 7 Date: Sat 23/12/2023 Opponent: Arizona Wildcats Result: W 96-95
Week 8 Date: Sat 30/12/2023 Opponent: Florida Gulf Coast Eagles Result: L 68-72
Week 9 Date: Tue 02/01/2024 Opponent: East Carolina Pirates Result: W 79-64
Week 9 Date: Sat 06/01/2024 Opponent: Charlotte 49ers Result: L 68-70
Week 10 Date: Thu 11/01/2024 Opponent: Tulane Green Wave Result: W 85-84
Week 10 Date: Sun 14/01/2024 Opponent: UAB Blazers Result: W 86-73
Week 11 Date: Thu 18/01/2024 Opponent: Wichita St. Shockers Result: W 86-77
Week 11 Date: Sun 21/01/2024 Opponent: Texas-San Antonio Roadrunners Result: W 112-103
Week 12 Date: Wed 24/01/2024 Opponent: Rice Owls Result: W 69-56
Week 12 Date: Sun 28/01/2024 Opponent: North Texas Mean Green Result: W 66-63
Week 13 Date: Sat 03/02/2024 Opponent: Tulsa Golden Hurricane Result: W 102-70
Week 14 Date: Thu 08/02/2024 Opponent: UAB Blazers Result: L 73-76
Week 14 Date: Sun 11/02/2024 Opponent: Wichita St. Shockers Result: W 95-82
Week 15 Date: Thu 15/02/2024 Opponent: Temple Owls Result: W 80-68
Week 15 Date: Sun 18/02/2024 Opponent: South Florida Bulls Result: L 86-90
Week 16 Date: Thu 22/02/2024 Opponent: Southern Methodist Mustangs Result: W 80-70
Week 16 Date: Sun 25/02/2024 Opponent: Memphis Tigers Result: L 74-78
Week 17 Date: Sat 02/03/2024 Opponent: Tulane Green Wave Result: W 79-73
Week 18 Date: Wed 06/03/2024 Opponent: North Texas Mean Green Result: W 80-76
Week 18 Date: Sat 09/03/2024 Opponent: Memphis Tigers Result: W 92-84

Post Season

Week Date Opponent Result
Conf. Tournament Date: Fri 15/03/2024 Opponent: North Texas Mean Green Result: W 77-71
Conf. Tournament Date: Sat 16/03/2024 Opponent: Temple Owls Result: L 73-74
NCAA Tournament Date: Fri 22/03/2024 Opponent: Northwestern Wildcats Result: L 65-77

Home of Florida Atlantic Owls: Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena

The Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena, the home of the Florida Atlantic Owls, is more than just a basketball venue. With its capacity of 2,900, it offers an intimate setting that has played a significant role in the team’s identity and culture. The arena’s atmosphere, steeped in history, has provided the Owls with a unique home-court advantage, contributing significantly to their success over the years.

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