Marquette

Marquette University is a private, Jesuit university located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is home to one of the most respected programs in NCAA men’s basketball. Known for its rich tradition, passionate fan base, and consistent competitiveness, Marquette has carved out a place as a major player in college basketball, particularly within the Big East Conference. While the program has not won a national championship in recent decades, Marquette’s basketball history is filled with achievements, including several deep runs in the NCAA Tournament, producing notable NBA talent, and maintaining a legacy of strong, competitive teams.

Championships and Success

Marquette has won one NCAA Championship in men’s basketball, in 1977, under head coach Al McGuire. This title remains one of the crowning achievements in the program’s history. The 1977 team, led by star players Butch Lee and Jerel “Big Cat” McGhee, was a dynamic and exciting squad. Marquette defeated the University of North Carolina in the national championship game, 67-59, to capture its first and only NCAA title. McGuire, known for his charismatic coaching style and leadership, helped transform Marquette into a powerhouse in the mid-1970s.

Beyond that 1977 championship, Marquette has consistently been a strong competitor in NCAA Tournament play. The program has made nine Final Four appearances, with additional significant tournament runs in the 1980s and 2000s. They reached the Final Four in 2003, led by head coach Tom Crean and the stellar play of Dwyane Wade, who went on to have a legendary NBA career. In 2003, Marquette’s thrilling run to the Final Four included a dramatic victory over Kentucky in the Elite Eight. Although they did not win the championship that year, the program’s resilience and high-level play were on full display.

Marquette is also a perennial contender in the Big East Conference, having won several conference titles and consistently earning NCAA Tournament berths. The program has had a number of successful seasons under various coaches, with notable successes including regular-season Big East championships and NCAA tournament appearances.

Location of Play

Marquette’s home games are played at Fiserv Forum, a state-of-the-art arena in downtown Milwaukee. Fiserv Forum, which opened in 2018, serves as the home for both the Marquette men’s basketball team and the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks. The arena has a seating capacity of 17,000 for basketball games and is known for its modern amenities, lively atmosphere, and prime location. The venue quickly became known for its passionate fan base, with Marquette’s student section, the “Golden Eagles”, providing a raucous environment for home games.

Prior to Fiserv Forum, Marquette played its home games at The Bradley Center, another downtown Milwaukee venue that hosted the team for several decades. Despite the change in arenas, the program’s fan base has remained steadfast and loyal, creating an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams in both venues.

Notable Alumni

Marquette has produced several NBA stars over the years, with perhaps the most notable being Dwyane Wade, one of the greatest players in NBA history. Wade, who played for Marquette from 2001 to 2003, led the team to the 2003 Final Four before being drafted fifth overall by the Miami Heat. Over his storied NBA career, Wade became a three-time NBA champion, NBA Finals MVP, and 13-time All-Star.

Other notable Marquette alumni include Jameer Nelson, Jimmy Butler, and Travis Diener. Jimmy Butler, who played for Marquette from 2008 to 2011, has gone on to become one of the NBA’s premier players, known for his tenacity, leadership, and ability to perform in clutch moments. Butler, a multiple-time NBA All-Star and current star for the Miami Heat, is widely regarded as one of the best two-way players in the league. Jameer Nelson, who played for Marquette from 2000 to 2004, enjoyed a successful NBA career and was an All-Star with the Orlando Magic.

Legacy

Marquette basketball is defined by its blue-collar work ethic, competitive spirit, and a history of producing high-level players. The program has a rich tradition of success, with its sole national championship in 1977 and multiple deep runs in the NCAA Tournament. Its success in the Big East Conference and strong performances in March Madness have helped solidify Marquette’s status as one of the more prestigious basketball programs in the country.

Under current head coach Shaka Smart, Marquette has continued to build on its history, focusing on developing talent and maintaining a competitive edge in the tough Big East. The program’s future remains bright, with a strong fan base, a modern arena in Fiserv Forum, and a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of players and fans alike.

With its one championship, numerous tournament appearances, and consistently high-level play, Marquette remains a respected and important program in the world of NCAA basketball.