Gannon Wins First NCAA Division II National Championship

Sophomore leads Gannon to victory over Lander in title game

Apr. 5, 2026 at 8:39pm

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Gannon University's men's basketball team, which had just 3 wins in the 2022-23 season, completed a remarkable turnaround by winning the NCAA Division II national championship, defeating Lander University in the title game. A standout sophomore player was the key to Gannon's victory.

Why it matters

Gannon's championship run is an inspiring story of resilience and perseverance, as the team transformed from one of the worst in program history to national champions in just a few short years. The victory brings pride and recognition to the school and the city of Erie, Pennsylvania.

The details

After a dismal 2022-23 season that saw Gannon win just 3 games, the team went on an incredible 92-win run over the next 3 years, culminating in their first-ever NCAA Division II national championship. In the title game, a standout sophomore player led Gannon to victory over Lander University.

  • Gannon had just 3 wins in the 2022-23 season, its fewest since the late 1940s.
  • Gannon last qualified for the NCAA Division II Tournament in 2017-18.
  • Gannon won the NCAA Division II national championship in 2026.

The players

Gannon University

A Division II university located in Erie, Pennsylvania, whose men's basketball team won the 2026 NCAA Division II national championship.

Lander University

A Division II university located in Greenwood, South Carolina, which lost to Gannon in the 2026 NCAA Division II national championship game.

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The takeaway

Gannon's remarkable turnaround from one of the worst seasons in program history to national champions in just a few years is an inspiring story of resilience, perseverance, and the power of determination. This victory brings immense pride to the school and the city of Erie.