History in the Making: Queens Heads to the Big Dance

Spring break looks a little different at Queens University of Charlotte this year. The usual silence of mid-March has been replaced by a whirlwind of energy. Between impromptu planning meetings, a surge of national media interviews, and relentless practice sessions, the Queens University men’s basketball team is preparing for what Cherie Swarthout, director of athletics, describes as an “absolutely epic” milestone.

Since making the leap to Division I, the Royals have been steadfastly carving their path into the history books. By securing their spot in the NCAA Tournament, they have become only the third program in NCAA history to advance to “March Madness” in their very first year of eligibility.

The Game That Changed Everything

Fans across the country watched with bated breath on Sunday, March 8, as the Royals battled through a grueling overtime period to secure a stunning 98-93 victory against the University of Central Arkansas.

“It was unreal,” said Nasir Mann ’26, a standout student-athlete studying sports communication. “It honestly still doesn’t feel real. I need somebody to pinch me so I can live in the moment. It’s a great opportunity for us, and we’re all excited to play.”

The victory was particularly emotional for Head Coach Grant Leonard, now in his fourth year leading the program. Having been part of the transition from Division II to the national stage, he noted that the “road bumps” along the way only fueled the team’s fire.

“What an amazing experience for not only our players, but the entire university and the Charlotte community,” said Leonard. “It wasn’t easy and never is, but a true testament to our team’s fortitude. I just couldn’t be more proud of them.”

A Win for the Queen City

The impact of this win transcends the court. Swarthout noted that the university has already seen its profile “raised exponentially” across the country, a move that typically triggers surges in admissions and recruitment.

“This championship is a historic milestone not just for Queens University, but for the entire city of Charlotte,” said Queens University President Jesse Cureton ’02. “Our student-athletes have earned the honor of representing this city on college basketball’s biggest stage, and we couldn’t be prouder to be Charlotte’s team in the Big Dance.”

Preparing for Selection Sunday

Behind the scenes, campus partners have been in overdrive to prepare for the bracket reveal. This Sunday, March 15, the university will host a community Selection Sunday Celebration.

“We are extremely excited to welcome our community to campus to join us in celebrating this joyous occasion,” Swarthout said. “Earning a bid in just our first year eligible is no easy feat. This is a moment that is great for our athletic department, our university, and just as important, it’s great for the broader Charlotte community.”

The festivities kick off at 4 p.m. on the Levine lawn with complimentary food and refreshments, music, and even a special appearance by Buddy the Street Dog.

A Packed House at Curry Arena

The momentum is undeniable. Over 1,200 Royals fans have already secured complimentary tickets to fill Curry Arena, and at 6 p.m., the live CBS broadcast will reveal where the Royals are headed next.

As the team prepares to see their name on the bracket, Mann has a message for the younger fans watching him and the Royals make this historic run: “No matter your circumstances, just always work hard. It’ll all work out.”