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Hayward Today
By the People, for the People
Cal State East Bay Pioneers Men's Basketball Team Heads to NCAA DII Tournament
Undefeated Pioneers to host West Regional tournament in Hayward
Mar. 11, 2026 at 4:47am
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The Cal State East Bay Pioneers men's basketball team, with a remarkable 30-0 record, will host the NCAA Division II West Regional tournament beginning on Friday, March 13, 2026. The Pioneers secured their spot in the tournament by winning the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) championship, defeating Cal Poly Humboldt 80-63 in the final. Under head coach Bryan Rooney, the Pioneers have climbed to a No. 2 national ranking, completing a dramatic turnaround from last season's 11-17 record.
Why it matters
The Pioneers' undefeated season and hosting of the NCAA DII West Regional tournament marks a major milestone for the Cal State East Bay basketball program. After a disappointing 2024-25 season, the team has undergone a remarkable transformation, proving that rapid success is possible in college sports. The tournament will bring increased attention and excitement to the Hayward community.
The details
The Pioneers secured their spot in the NCAA DII tournament by winning the CCAA championship on March 7, 2026. In the final, they defeated Cal Poly Humboldt 80-63. Under head coach Bryan Rooney, who was named CCAA Coach of the Year, the team has climbed to a No. 2 national ranking, completing a dramatic turnaround from last season's 11-17 record.
- The Pioneers won the CCAA tournament championship on March 7, 2026.
- The NCAA DII West Regional tournament will be held from March 13-16, 2026.
The players
Cal State East Bay Pioneers
The men's basketball team at Cal State East Bay, a public university in Hayward, California. The Pioneers are the only undefeated team remaining in NCAA Division II basketball this season.
Bryan Rooney
The head coach of the Cal State East Bay Pioneers men's basketball team. He was named the CCAA Coach of the Year after leading the team to a remarkable turnaround season.
Cal Poly Humboldt
The men's basketball team at Cal Poly Humboldt, a public university in Arcata, California. They were defeated by the Cal State East Bay Pioneers in the CCAA tournament championship game.
What they’re saying
“One of the most dramatic turnarounds in college sports now owns the national spotlight.”
— Kimberly Hawkins, Senior News and Media Manager/PIO, Cal State East Bay
What’s next
The Pioneers will host the NCAA Division II West Regional tournament from March 13-16, 2026. The tournament champion will advance to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight.
The takeaway
The Cal State East Bay Pioneers' remarkable turnaround season, going from 11-17 to 30-0 and hosting the NCAA DII West Regional tournament, demonstrates the potential for rapid transformation in college sports. Their success has brought increased attention and excitement to the Hayward community.
