An Unforgettable Season
The 2010-11 Aztecs delivered a record-breaking season on many fronts.
But, players, coaches and fans will always remember this unprecedented season of success for Aztec basketball.
“It’s very disappointing to lose a game,” said sophomore guard James Rahon. “But, I think we all have to reflect on the history we did bring to San Diego State. We had a great year … and it’s just been a pleasure playing with all these guys. I think that’s the thing that hurts the most — not being able to play with them after today. But (I’m) definitely happy about the season. Too bad we didn’t go farther.”
Fans echoed the sentiment.
“It’s disappointing to realize you won’t ever get to see this group of players play together again at San Diego State,” said journalism junior Josh Hoffman. “But to accomplish what they accomplished — and to do it in such an unprecedented way — is something I’ll never forget.”
Unforgettable achievements
From 2010-11, the men’s basketball team’s road to Anaheim was paved with never-before-seen achievements and recognition:
- A 34-3 record, the best in program history
- Top 10 rankings in the Associated Press and Coaches polls for a program that was never ranked prior to this year
- Mountain West Conference regular season co-champion and tournament champion
- Head coach Steve Fisher named a finalist for the Naismith Coach-of-the-Year Award
- A record 13 home game ticket sell-outs at Viejas Arena
“It’s been a great season, a great ride, as tournament champions and getting to the Sweet 16,” said sophomore guard Chase Tapley. “Going through this (season), it really is a great experience. (We can) take this for next year and just apply it … and look forward to getting back here next year.”
For head coach Steve Fisher, he had choice words for his players after the game.
“You’ve done so much for San Diego State, the community, and for yourselves that when we reflect back on it, all of us will know the legacy you have established.”
Thanking the Aztec Nation
Players also appreciated the Aztec Nation’s support throughout their unforgettable season.
“Gotta give it up to the fans,” Tapley said. “They were there every game, every trip. And they were there today, cheering stuff, when we went on that run, they were the main reason why.”
And fans thanked the team right back.
“The team and Coach Fisher have done a tremendous job of turning the program around to be one of the best in the nation,” said Jose Nevarez, administrative coordinator in Student Affairs. “I'm very proud of the team for a great season and making history with a 20-game win streak, a 34-3 overall record and two wins in the NCAA tournament.”
'Mountain of momentum'
There’s also plenty to look forward to next year, said Jim Herrick, executive director of the SDSU Alumni Association. He noted that this season created a “mountain of momentum” for next year.
“Our players, our students and our alumni are a team, and San Diego State University is a great university worthy of this incredible surge of pride,” he said.
Sophomore guard Kawhi Leonard agreed, “The university (fan support) has grown this year … it just makes you want to try it again and come back.”
