Big Ten Basketball

Big Ten Basketball History

In 1896, under the organization skills of Intercollegiate Conference of Faculty Representatives, the very first five-on-five basketball game between two colleges took place. The Intercollegiate Conference of Faculty Representatives would eventually evolve into what is now known as the Big Ten Conference. This moniker did not come about until 1950, when there were in fact 10 institution members of the Big Ten Conference. Presently, the name “Big Ten” is deceptive, as there are in fact 11 members of the conference. Penn State was a late addition to the roster in 1990.

Big Ten teams have competed in basketball from 1904 to the present. Often times four or more representatives from the Big Ten Conference appear in the world famous National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Men’s Basketball Tournament.

Big Ten Basketball Superstars

Probably the most well known Big Ten basketball superstar is Earvin “Magic” Johnson. A native of Lansing, Michigan and a graduate of Michigan State University, Johnson put a great deal of flavor into Big Ten competition in his day. His public bout with HIV, his smart business etiquette, and of course his skills on the basketball court with the Los Angeles Lakers spurred on his fame. Detroit Piston Chris Webber is another familiar face from the NBA who attended the University of Michigan. Webber was involved in a large controversy involving the Big Ten. A scandal developed when an athletic booster forwarded monetary funds illegally to University of Michigan basketball players totaling $616,000.00. As a result, the NCAA forfeited the Wolverine’s 1998 Big Ten Tournament Championship (and other titles). Webber overcame the aftermath of the scandal and commenced a successful career in the NBA. He was five-time NBA All-Star and plays for the Detroit Pistons.

Big Ten Basketball Records

In the beginnings of national championship basketball competition, the first three MVP selected from the NCAA Tournament were from the Big Ten. 44 teams from the Big Ten have participated in the final four since the very first NCAA Tournament was played in 1939. The Big Ten conference holds the record for the most appearances in the final rounds of the NCAA tournament. Winners of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) have also included eight Big Ten representatives like the University of Michigan with two NIT titles under its belt. Fans also show great support for Big Ten basketball, as the conference has taken the national attendance title for over 30 straight years.