The UC San Diego athletic program has officially completed its transition to Division I status and is now a full-fledged member of the Big West Conference. This milestone follows a four-year transition period that began in July 2020.
During the transition, while the university participated in conference competition, it was ineligible to win championships in any sport. Now, with the transition complete, the Tritons are eligible to contend for titles and leave their mark on the conference.
The men’s basketball team is led by head coach Eric Olen, who is in his 12th season at the helm. Olen’s tenure includes seven seasons at the Division II level and five at the Division I level. While the transition to Division I brought challenges, Olen has guided the program to a strong position in recent years.
The Tritons endured losing records in each of their first three Division I seasons. However, they experienced a breakthrough last year, achieving the program’s first winning season at the Division I level. Olen led the team to a 21-12 record, including an impressive 15-5 mark in conference play, which was second only to UC Irvine.
Despite their success, UC San Diego could not participate in the 2024 Big West Tournament due to their transitional status. Now fully eligible, the Tritons can compete in postseason play without restrictions.
UC San Diego is off to a stellar start this season, boasting a 14-3 record, including a 4-1 mark in conference play. Two of their non-conference losses came against strong opponents in San Diego State and 2024 CBI champions Seattle University. After an early loss to Seattle, the Tritons went on a 10-game win streak before dropping their first conference game to preseason Big West favorite UC Irvine.
A season highlight was an upset victory over Utah State, the 2023-24 Mountain West regular-season champions. The Aggies ranked No. 25 in the AP Poll at the time and fell to the Tritons in a thrilling two-point game.
While the conference season is still young, UC San Diego, ranked in the Mid-Major Basketball Power 20 rankings, is poised to make history by earning its first Division I postseason berth. With their strong play, the Tritons have a realistic chance of competing in the NCAA Tournament, marking a significant milestone for the program.
