The Grand Canyon Antelopes represent Grand Canyon University with pride, showcasing excellence in both academics and athletics. Known for their competitive Grand Canyon Antelopes basketball and Grand Canyon Antelopes baseball programs, the teams have gained national recognition for their dedication and sportsmanship, inspiring fans and elevating the school’s reputation across NCAA competitions.
College Sports Established
1949
Location
Phoenix, Arizona
College Name
Grand Canyon University
Collegiate History
1991 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
1995 - 1998, 2013 - Present / Western Athletic Conference
1991 - 1994 / Independent
Nickname
Antelopes - The Grand Canyon Antelopes are a college basketball team that has existed since 1949. Over the years, they have developed an impressive following and earned themselves a nickname: The Lopes. But where did this nickname come from?
Grand Canyon Antelopes Origin
It turns out that the origin of “Lopes” dates back to when the school first began fielding teams in sports like football and basketball in 1949. When looking for an appropriate mascot, one student suggested using antelopes due to their speed and agility on land – desirable attributes for athletes then! From there, people started referring to any member of these athletic teams simply as “Lope” or "The Lope."
Today, The Lope is still used by fans of Grand Canyon University athletics whenever they refer to any athlete representing them - whether it be men's or women's basketball players or members from other sports teams such as baseball & softball squads. It is sometimes used interchangeably with GCU (e.g., Go Lopes!). This unique moniker has become synonymous with loyalty & passion among students & alumni alike - something we can all appreciate!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 2008
- 2013
- 2020
- 2021
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GC Antelopes Mascot Thunder
In 1949, when Grand Canyon College opened in Prescott, Ariz., students chose the Antelope as the official mascot in a schoolwide vote before the first basketball season. Thunder throwback Some students wanted an animal mascot that represented the namesake of the university while others wanted it to symbolize Prescott. The finalists were Antelopes and the offbeat “Beasts of Burden,” venerating ... -
Grand Canyon Antelopes joined Division I’s Western Athletic Conference
On November 27, 2012, Grand Canyon University announced that it had accepted an invitation to join Division I’s Western Athletic Conference, effective July 1, 2013 -
Antelopes Coach Bryce Drew
On March 17, 2020, Drew was hired as the head coach of Grand Canyon, replacing Dan Majerle.[16] On March 6, 2021, Drew coached Grand Canyon to its first WAC regular-season championship in school history. A week later, the Antelopes won the WAC tournament championship as well, earning their first trip to the 2021 NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament in ... -
Grand Canyon Won WAC basketball title
Grand Canyon players celebrate after defeating New Mexico State 74-56 in an NCAA college basketball game for the championship of the Western Athletic Conference men’s tournament Saturday, March 13, 2021, in Las Vegas.
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.
Grand Canyon Antelopes History
The Grand Canyon Antelopes have a proud legacy in NCAA Division I athletics, representing Grand Canyon University since 1949. Over the years, the Grand Canyon Antelopes basketball and Grand Canyon Antelopes baseball programs have stood out, earning multiple championships and producing outstanding athletes who have carried the university’s competitive spirit nationwide.
Grand Canyon University first launched its intercollegiate basketball program during the 1949–1950 season. Initially competing as an independent team, the Antelopes joined the Arizona Intercollegiate Conference (AIC) in 1967. During this era, they claimed three AIC championships and faced notable opponents, including Arizona State University and Brigham Young University, marking the start of their long-standing basketball tradition.
In 1978, the Grand Canyon Antelopes transitioned to NCAA Division II, where they joined the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). The Antelopes enjoyed tremendous success under head coach Ben Lindsey, who led the team to national prominence. Between 1985 and 1991, GCU captured four conference titles, setting the foundation for the school’s rise. Later, in 1996, the Antelopes made their historic move to NCAA Division I, continuing to compete in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) for all sports except men’s soccer, which joined the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation in 2013.
Antelopes Achievements
The Grand Canyon Antelopes basketball program has continued to flourish at the Division I level, earning a reputation for its passionate fan base and consistent tournament runs. Their 2021 WAC Tournament victory earned them their first appearance in the NCAA March Madness, a major milestone in the program’s modern era and a defining achievement for Arizona college basketball.
Beyond basketball, the Grand Canyon Antelopes baseball team has also gained recognition, producing professional-level players and competing fiercely within the WAC. The Antelopes’ commitment to excellence across all sports continues to strengthen their identity as one of the most respected athletic programs in the region.
Today, the Grand Canyon Antelopes remain a symbol of determination and pride. From conference championships to NCAA tournament appearances, their achievements in both basketball and baseball reflect a program built on hard work, resilience, and community support. With continued success and growing national visibility, the Antelopes’ legacy is set to inspire future generations of athletes and fans alike.
