The final season in the WAC was nothing short of thrilling, especially as Championship Week unfolded. The Utah Valley Wolverines, the top-seeded favorites, found themselves in a legal battle just to participate in the tournament.
The WAC commissioner was displeased with their decision not to join the new UAC conference, but despite all the drama, the Wolverines fell short. It was the Cal Baptist Lancers, the second seed, who emerged victorious.
Cal Baptist, under the steady guidance of head coach Rick Croy, has been a Division 1 program for eight seasons. This year marks a historic moment for the Lancers as they make their debut in the NCAA Tournament. Many might not be familiar with this team, but it's time to get acquainted.
Dominique Daniels Jr.
If you're not familiar with Cal Baptist, you're not alone. They play in a smaller conference, often airing on less accessible channels.
But if there's one name to remember, it's Dominique Daniels Jr. This 5’10” guard is electrifying and a must-watch in the tournament, especially if you love scoring.
Daniels is the heart of the Lancers' offense. His performance in the last seven minutes of the WAC championship was crucial in securing their spot.
As a volume scorer, Daniels takes 18 shots per game, fearlessly driving to the basket and drawing fouls. His ability to get to the line is game-changing, boasting an impressive 81% success rate on 216 free throw attempts.
He's a senior who knows how to close games, and he's set to shine against even the toughest competition. Keep an eye on him-he might just become your favorite player this tournament.
Rick Croy
Rick Croy has been the cornerstone of Cal Baptist's rise. Since taking over in 2013, when the team was still in Division 2, Croy has led them to success after success. His leadership has been pivotal in their transition to Division 1, where they quickly made a name for themselves with a 21-10 record in their second year.
Croy's coaching acumen has the Lancers on an upward trajectory. With their first NCAA Tournament appearance, the stage is set for more milestones. If Croy continues to steer the team forward, more tournament appearances-and victories-are likely on the horizon.
America’s Team
While they might not be the Dallas Cowboys, the Lancers have all the ingredients to capture fans' hearts. This is their first appearance on the big stage, and they're coming from a lesser-known conference. With a dynamic, scoring guard and a Cinderella story vibe, they're poised to become a fan favorite.
Cal Baptist is embracing this moment. As a 14 seed, they'll face a power-five school on national TV, bringing unprecedented attention to the program.
Whether they win or lose, this exposure is invaluable. So, Lancers, enjoy the ride-these are the biggest games of your lives.