La Salle Explorers

Are part of the Atlantic 10 Conference, were established in 1863, and their home arena is Tom Gola Arena, La Salle University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Intriguing Facts About the La Salle Explorers

The La Salle Explorers’ history is peppered with fascinating facts that underline their unique position in NCAA basketball. One of the crowning achievements of the program is the 1954 national championship victory, a testament to their early dominance. The 1989-90 team, under the guidance of coach Speedy Morris, set a school record with an impressive 30 wins in a single season, a feat that remains unmatched. Lionel Simmons, a key player during this period, emerged as the national player of the year and became the all-time leading scorer for La Salle.

This era also saw the Explorers reaching the 11th spot in the Associated Press poll, marking their presence on the national stage. The tradition of honoring past teams and players, like the induction of the 1989-90 team into the Hall of Athletes, speaks volumes about the program’s commitment to its legacy.

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The Historical Tapestry of the La Salle Explorers

La Salle’s basketball program has evolved significantly since its inception, growing from a regional team to a national powerhouse. The program’s golden era in the 1950s set the stage for future success, with the team clinching the 1954 national title and finishing as runners-up in 1955. These early triumphs laid the foundation for a culture of excellence that has permeated the program for decades.

The Golden Era

The late 1980s and early 1990s under coach Speedy Morris were a defining period for La Salle basketball. This era, highlighted by the 1989-90 team, was marked by a philosophy that emphasized team cohesion and individual responsibility. Stars like Lionel Simmons shone brightly, contributing to a record-breaking season that saw 30 victories, a school record. The team’s success during this period wasn’t just due to their talent and coaching but also stemmed from a deep sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, elements that were crucial in forging a winning mentality.

Legendary Figures in La Salle History

The history of La Salle basketball is adorned with legendary figures who have left an indelible mark on the program. Coaches like Speedy Morris, who led the team during its successful late ’80s and ’90s run, and players such as Lionel Simmons, have become synonymous with the Explorers’ legacy of excellence. Their contributions have shaped the program and inspired future generations.

A Game to Remember

Among the many memorable games in La Salle’s history, the 1990 NCAA Tournament matchup against Clemson stands out. Despite leading at halftime, the Explorers were outscored in the second half. This game exemplified the team’s fighting spirit, even in the face of adversity and remains a poignant reminder of the thin line between victory and defeat in competitive sports.

La Salle Explorers 2024 Schedule

Regular Season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result
Week 1	Date: Mon 06/11/2023	Opponent: Drexel Dragons	Result: TBD
Week 1	Date: Tue 07/11/2023	Opponent: Drexel Dragons	Result: W 67-61
Week 1	Date: Sat 11/11/2023	Opponent: Northeastern Huskies	Result: W 79-74
Week 2	Date: Tue 14/11/2023	Opponent: Bucknell Bison	Result: W 69-57
Week 2	Date: Sat 18/11/2023	Opponent: Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles	Result: W 79-78
Week 3	Date: Tue 21/11/2023	Opponent: Duke Blue Devils	Result: L 66-95
Week 3	Date: Sun 26/11/2023	Opponent: Coppin St. Eagles	Result: W 81-62
Week 4	Date: Wed 29/11/2023	Opponent: Temple Owls	Result: L 99-106
Week 4	Date: Sat 02/12/2023	Opponent: Pennsylvania Quakers	Result: W 93-92
Week 5	Date: Wed 06/12/2023	Opponent: Loyola (MD) Greyhounds	Result: W 62-61
Week 5	Date: Sat 09/12/2023	Opponent: Lafayette Leopards	Result: W 67-51
Week 6	Date: Sat 16/12/2023	Opponent: Miami-Florida Hurricanes	Result: L 77-84
Week 7	Date: Thu 21/12/2023	Opponent: Rosemont College Ravens	Result: W 107-41
Week 8	Date: Sat 30/12/2023	Opponent: Howard Bison	Result: L 66-71
Week 9	Date: Wed 03/01/2024	Opponent: George Mason Patriots	Result: L 62-77
Week 9	Date: Sat 06/01/2024	Opponent: Fordham Rams	Result: W 81-76
Week 10	Date: Wed 10/01/2024	Opponent: Massachusetts Minutemen	Result: L 65-81
Week 10	Date: Sat 13/01/2024	Opponent: VCU Rams	Result: L 65-71
Week 11	Date: Mon 15/01/2024	Opponent: Saint Joseph’s Hawks	Result: L 62-82
Week 12	Date: Tue 23/01/2024	Opponent: Dayton Flyers	Result: L 54-66
Week 12	Date: Sat 27/01/2024	Opponent: George Washington Revolutionaries	Result: W 80-70
Week 13	Date: Wed 31/01/2024	Opponent: Rhode Island Rams	Result: L 69-71
Week 13	Date: Sat 03/02/2024	Opponent: Saint Joseph’s Hawks	Result: L 82-88
Week 14	Date: Wed 07/02/2024	Opponent: Saint Louis Billikens	Result: L 84-102
Week 14	Date: Sat 10/02/2024	Opponent: Richmond Spiders	Result: L 65-82
Week 15	Date: Tue 13/02/2024	Opponent: Davidson Wildcats	Result: L 56-71
Week 15	Date: Sat 17/02/2024	Opponent: Massachusetts Minutemen	Result: W 82-81
Week 16	Date: Wed 21/02/2024	Opponent: St. Bonaventure Bonnies	Result: W 72-59
Week 16	Date: Sun 25/02/2024	Opponent: Rhode Island Rams	Result: W 84-61
Week 17	Date: Wed 28/02/2024	Opponent: Duquesne Dukes	Result: L 63-75
Week 17	Date: Sat 02/03/2024	Opponent: George Washington Revolutionaries	Result: W 72-66
Week 18	Date: Sat 09/03/2024	Opponent: Loyola-Chicago Ramblers	Result: L 54-64

Post Season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result
Conf. Tournament	Date: Tue 12/03/2024	Opponent: George Washington Revolutionaries	Result: W 61-60
Conf. Tournament	Date: Wed 13/03/2024	Opponent: St. Bonaventure Bonnies	Result: L 73-75

Home of La Salle Explorers: Tom Gola Arena

Tom Gola Arena is more than just a basketball venue; it’s a symbol of La Salle’s rich basketball tradition and a crucible where future legends are forged. The arena’s history and vibrant atmosphere make it a special place for both players and fans, a site where memorable moments are created and celebrated.

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