Siena Students Celebrate Historic NCAA Tournament Berth

The Saints return to the Big Dance for the first time since 2010.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Siena University students gathered at a packed watch party on campus to cheer on the men's basketball team as they clinched a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 16 years. The viewing party at Casey's Lounge in the Sarazen Student Union erupted in celebration as the Saints defeated Merrimack to win the MAAC championship.

Why it matters

Siena's last appearance in the NCAA Tournament was in 2010, long before most current students enrolled at the university. This historic run has sparked a new level of pride and excitement around the basketball program, with students eager to follow the team's journey in the Big Dance.

The details

Throughout the championship game, the packed watch party was filled with cheers, nervous anticipation, and eventually celebration as Siena pulled away late to defeat Merrimack by 10 points. When Merrimack began to cut into Siena's lead in the second half, anxiety could be felt across the room, but once the Saints regained control and sealed the victory, the atmosphere quickly turned into a celebration, with loud applause, cheers, and smiles throughout the lounge.

  • Siena's last appearance in the NCAA Tournament was in 2010.
  • The viewing party at Casey's Lounge in the Sarazen Student Union took place on Tuesday night, March 11, 2026.

The players

Siena University

A private liberal arts college located in Loudonville, New York, known for its men's basketball team, the Saints.

Merrimack

Siena's opponent in the MAAC championship game, which the Saints won to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

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What’s next

With Siena now heading to the NCAA Tournament, the celebration on campus marked the beginning of what many hope will be another memorable chapter for Saints basketball.

The takeaway

Siena's historic win in the MAAC championship game has reignited excitement and pride around the university's basketball program, with students eager to support the team as they make their return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 16 years.