The UC Irvine Anteaters

Are part of the Big West Conference, were established in 1965, their home arena is the Bren Events Center, located at the University of California, Irvine in Irvine, California.

Intriguing Facts About the UC Irvine Anteaters

The choice of the Anteater as a mascot, inspired by the “B.C.” comic strip in the 1960s, reflects the university’s embrace of uniqueness and creativity. This unusual mascot has become a symbol of the team’s distinct identity.
UC Irvine’s basketball games have seen some of the highest attendances in their history, indicating the growing popularity and support for the team within the local community and beyond.
The roster of the Anteaters over the years has been adorned by players from various countries, lending the team an international flavor and enhancing the diversity of skills and styles on the court.
Renowned for their defensive capabilities, the Anteaters have consistently been among the top teams in defensive stats, showcasing their strategic focus and physical prowess.
The team’s commitment to community engagement extends beyond basketball. Their involvement in local initiatives and projects highlights their dedication to making a positive impact in society, further strengthening the bond with their supporters.

The Historical Tapestry of the UC Irvine Anteaters

From its inception in the late 1960s, the UC Irvine basketball program has grown from a fledgling team to a respected name in NCAA basketball. The early years were marked by the typical struggles of a new team, but these challenges laid the foundation for a strong and resilient program. Over the decades, the Anteaters evolved, adapting to new strategies and styles, while maintaining a focus on building a team that excels both in skill and character. This journey through various historical phases has seen the team transform from underdogs to formidable opponents, marked by their tenacity and commitment to the game.

The Golden Era

The golden era of UC Irvine basketball, notably under Coach Russell Turner, stands out as a period of remarkable success and growth. Turner’s coaching philosophy, emphasizing a balance between a robust defense and an efficient offense, propelled the team to new heights. This era saw the emergence of stars like Mamadou Ndiaye, who left an indelible mark on the program. The team’s achievements during this period, including multiple conference titles and memorable NCAA tournament runs, are a testament to the effective combination of strategic coaching, talented players, and a supportive university environment.

Legendary Figures in UC Irvine Anteaters History

The history of the UC Irvine Anteaters is dotted with legendary figures who have shaped the course of the team. Coaches like Bill Mulligan and players such as Scott Brooks have contributed immensely to the team’s ethos and success. These individuals have not just excelled in their roles but have also been ambassadors of the sport, inspiring those around them and setting high standards for those who follow. Their stories are not just about personal achievements but about a shared passion for basketball and a commitment to the values of the university.

A Game to Remember

Among the many thrilling games in the Anteaters’ history, one that stands out is their stunning victory in an NCAA tournament, where they overcame a heavily favored opponent. This game was a showcase of the team’s strategic ingenuity, resilience, and the unyielding spirit that defines Anteater basketball. The victory not only brought joy to their fans but also earned the team national recognition, proving that with determination and teamwork, even the most formidable challenges can be overcome.

UC Irvine Anteaters 2024 Schedule

Regular Season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result
Week 1	Date: Tue 07/11/2023	Opponent: San Jose St. Spartans	Result: L 64-72
Week 1	Date: Sat 11/11/2023	Opponent: New Mexico St. Aggies	Result: W 91-74
Week 2	Date: Tue 14/11/2023	Opponent: Southern California Trojans	Result: W 70-60
Week 2	Date: Fri 17/11/2023	Opponent: Occidental Tigers	Result: W 111-51
Week 3	Date: Tue 21/11/2023	Opponent: Pepperdine Waves	Result: W 76-60
Week 3	Date: Wed 22/11/2023	Opponent: Toledo Rockets	Result: W 77-71
Week 3	Date: Fri 24/11/2023	Opponent: Rice Owls	Result: W 83-68
Week 4	Date: Wed 29/11/2023	Opponent: Duquesne Dukes	Result: L 62-66
Week 4	Date: Sat 02/12/2023	Opponent: Utah St. Aggies	Result: L 69-79
Week 5	Date: Sat 09/12/2023	Opponent: San Diego St. Aztecs	Result: L 62-63
Week 6	Date: Sat 16/12/2023	Opponent: South Dakota Coyotes	Result: W 121-78
Week 7	Date: Wed 20/12/2023	Opponent: New Mexico Lobos	Result: L 65-78
Week 8	Date: Thu 28/12/2023	Opponent: UC Riverside Highlanders	Result: W 73-66
Week 8	Date: Sat 30/12/2023	Opponent: CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners	Result: W 75-56
Week 9	Date: Thu 04/01/2024	Opponent: CSU Fullerton Titans	Result: W 75-67
Week 9	Date: Sat 06/01/2024	Opponent: UC Davis Aggies	Result: W 74-71
Week 10	Date: Thu 11/01/2024	Opponent: Hawaii Rainbow Warriors	Result: W 60-50
Week 11	Date: Thu 18/01/2024	Opponent: UC San Diego Tritons	Result: W 76-65
Week 11	Date: Sat 20/01/2024	Opponent: UC Davis Aggies	Result: L 52-54
Week 12	Date: Thu 25/01/2024	Opponent: Long Beach St.	Result: W 72-61
Week 12	Date: Sat 27/01/2024	Opponent: CSU Northridge Matadors	Result: W 77-72
Week 13	Date: Thu 01/02/2024	Opponent: Cal Poly SLO Mustangs	Result: W 73-59
Week 13	Date: Sat 03/02/2024	Opponent: Hawaii Rainbow Warriors	Result: W 93-68
Week 14	Date: Thu 08/02/2024	Opponent: UC Santa Barbara Gauchos	Result: W 76-61
Week 14	Date: Sat 10/02/2024	Opponent: UC Riverside Highlanders	Result: L 78-88
Week 15	Date: Sat 17/02/2024	Opponent: CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners	Result: W 77-71
Week 16	Date: Thu 22/02/2024	Opponent: UC Santa Barbara Gauchos	Result: W 81-69
Week 16	Date: Sat 24/02/2024	Opponent: UC San Diego Tritons	Result: L 88-92
Week 17	Date: Thu 29/02/2024	Opponent: CSU Northridge Matadors	Result: W 89-64
Week 17	Date: Sat 02/03/2024	Opponent: Long Beach St.	Result: W 82-61
Week 18	Date: Thu 07/03/2024	Opponent: Cal Poly SLO Mustangs	Result: W 82-68
Week 18	Date: Sat 09/03/2024	Opponent: CSU Fullerton Titans	Result: W 81-71

Post Season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result
Conf. Tournament	Date: Fri 15/03/2024	Opponent: Long Beach St.	Result: L 79-83
NIT	Date: Tue 19/03/2024	Opponent: Utah Utes	Result: L 75-84

Home of UC Irvine Anteaters: Bren Events Center

The Bren Events Center, more than just a venue, is the heart of Anteater basketball. Its history is intertwined with that of the team, having witnessed numerous memorable games and moments. The electric atmosphere during matches, fueled by passionate fans, makes it a daunting place for visiting teams. The Center’s significance extends beyond its role as a sports venue; it is a symbol of the community’s support and love for the Anteaters, a place where memories are made and legends are born.