The Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners represent a tradition of determination and success in NCAA athletics. Known for their competitive spirit, the program has earned recognition through standout achievements in Bakersfield Roadrunners basketball and CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners baseball. With a rich history of championships, strong coaching, and passionate fans, the Roadrunners have become a respected name in college sports.
College Sports Established
1965
Location
Bakersfield, California
College Name
CSU Bakersfield
Collegiate History
2010 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1972 - 2010 / NCAA Division II
1972 - 2007 / California Collegiate Athletic Association
Conference History
2020 - Present / Big West Conference
2013 - 2020 / Western Athletic Conference
Nickname
Roadrunners - The CSU Bakersfield official team nickname is the "Roadrunners." In November 1970, thirty-three nicknames were put to a student vote. The final vote was between Roadrunners and El Cid with "Roadrunners" winning.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1965
- 1976
- 1991
- 1993
- 2011
- 2016
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Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners men’s basketball team is founded
In 1965: Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners men’s basketball team is founded. -
Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners baseball team wins its first conference championship.
In 1976: Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners baseball team wins its first conference championship. -
Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners men’s soccer team wins its first conference championship
In 1991: Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners men’s soccer team wins its first conference championship. -
Head Coach Rod Barnes
Rod Barnes: Barnes is a former CSUB men’s basketball player who went on to become the head coach of the team. As a player, he helped lead the Roadrunners to their first NCAA Division II National Championship in 1993. He later led the team to their first Division I NCAA Tournament appearance in 2016 as head coach. -
Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners men’s basketball team wins its first conference championship
In 2011: Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners men’s basketball team wins its first conference championship. -
Western Athletic Conference championship Winner
In 2016: Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners men’s basketball team wins the Western Athletic Conference championship and makes its first NCAA Division I Tournament appearance.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners History
The Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners have built a long and exciting history in NCAA athletics, known especially for their rivalry with the Cal Poly Mustangs. Originally competing in NCAA Division II from 1990, the Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners became one of the most successful programs at that level, winning numerous conference championships and making multiple national tournament appearances. The program later transitioned to Division I, expanding its reach and prestige while maintaining its winning tradition.
The Roadrunners have had notable success in Bakersfield Roadrunners basketball, including landmark victories that raised the university’s profile. Under head coach Rod Barnes, the team made history with its 2016 run to the NCAA Tournament – the program’s first at the Division I level. This historic appearance highlighted the growth of Bakersfield Roadrunners basketball and solidified the team as a competitive force in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).
Success also extends to CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners baseball, which has developed a reputation for producing top talent and competing strongly in conference play. The baseball program has earned several significant wins over higher-ranked opponents and cultivated athletes who have gone on to professional careers. These achievements reflect the university’s dedication to building strong athletics across multiple sports.
Beyond basketball and baseball, Cal State Bakersfield has excelled in other sports as well. The men’s soccer program received its first postseason invitation after finishing second in the regular season, while the women’s volleyball program advanced deep into tournament brackets against nationally recognized teams. These accomplishments showcase the Roadrunners’ ability to compete across diverse sports.
The Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners have also demonstrated excellence off the field. The athletic program emphasizes high academic standards, community engagement, and leadership development. Many student-athletes have earned Academic All-American honors, reflecting the balance between athletic performance and classroom success.
Roadrunners Legacy
In recent years, the Roadrunners have continued to expand their legacy. Bakersfield Roadrunners basketball teams have consistently finished among the top contenders in the WAC, and CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners baseball has added to the school’s trophy case with impressive postseason appearances. These achievements have cemented Cal State Bakersfield as a respected institution in collegiate sports.
Today, the Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners remain a source of pride for their fans, alumni, and the wider community. With a history of excellence in Bakersfield Roadrunners basketball, CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners baseball, and other sports, the program continues to represent determination, skill, and tradition. As the Roadrunners look ahead, they are poised to build on their successes and inspire future generations of athletes.
