Key moments
Santa Clara University men’s basketball has made a significant return to the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament, securing an at-large bid for the first time since 1996. The announcement was made on March 15, 2026, as the Broncos were revealed to be a 10 seed in the Midwest Region, setting the stage for a highly anticipated matchup against the No. 7 seed Kentucky.
This year marks the 12th appearance all-time for the Broncos in the NCAA Tournament, a notable achievement for a program that has seen its ups and downs over the years. With a season record of 26 wins and 8 losses, Santa Clara finished third in the West Coast Conference, boasting a remarkable 15-3 mark in conference play, the most wins in program history.
Under the leadership of head coach Herb Sendek, the Broncos have demonstrated consistent improvement, achieving six straight 20-win seasons and making three appearances in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). This season, they made a strong run in the West Coast Conference Championship, advancing to the title game for the first time since 2007, further solidifying their place in the tournament.
Santa Clara’s last NCAA Tournament appearance was particularly memorable, as it coincided with the senior year of NBA star Steve Nash. The Broncos made an impressive run in their inaugural tournament appearance in 1952, reaching the Final Four. This history adds to the excitement surrounding their return to the tournament after a 30-year absence.
As they prepare for the first round against Kentucky, the team is filled with optimism and determination. Coach Herb Sendek expressed his excitement, stating, “This team hasn’t been here for 30 years.” His sentiments reflect the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff over the years.
Allen Graves, a key player for the Broncos, shared his feelings about the moment they learned of their tournament selection: “When I saw Santa Clara go up, it was just an amazing feeling.” He emphasized the team’s desire to make a significant impact in the tournament, saying, “We want to make noise in the tournament.”
Santa Clara’s journey to this point has not been without challenges, but their resilience and commitment have brought them back to the national stage. The Broncos have one other win against an NCAA Tournament team this season, defeating McNeese State at home, showcasing their capability to compete at a high level.
As the tournament approaches, anticipation builds not only among the players and coaching staff but also among the fans and alumni who have long awaited this moment. The Broncos are ready to embrace the challenge ahead, aiming to leave their mark in this year’s NCAA Tournament.
