As the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament approaches, California Baptist University is preparing for a historic moment. On March 20, 2026, the Lancers will make their first-ever appearance in the tournament, facing off against the Kansas Jayhawks at Viejas Arena in San Diego, California.
California Baptist earned a No. 13 seed in the tournament after a thrilling 63-61 victory over Utah Valley University in the Western Athletic Conference tournament championship game. This victory not only secured their spot in the tournament but also marked a significant milestone for the program, which first organized a basketball team in 1956.
The Lancers enter the tournament with a strong record of 25 wins and 8 losses, riding a six-game win streak. Dominique Daniels Jr. has been a standout player for California Baptist, averaging 23.2 points and 3.7 rebounds per game, and his performance will be crucial as they face the formidable Jayhawks.
Kansas, a seasoned team with a history of success, received a No. 4 seed in the tournament. The Jayhawks finished the season with a record of 23 wins and 10 losses and are coming off a semifinal loss in the Big 12 Tournament. Kansas has won the National Championship four times, with their most recent title in 2022, making them a tough opponent for the Lancers.
The game is scheduled for 9:45 p.m. ET, and the anticipation is building as California Baptist looks to make a statement in their inaugural tournament appearance. Head coach Rick Croy expressed the significance of this moment, stating, “Truly a dream come true.”
As the Lancers prepare for this monumental challenge, Daniels Jr. emphasized their competitive spirit, saying, “We’re not competing just for show, we’re here to win games.” This attitude reflects the determination of a team eager to prove themselves on a national stage.
The matchup against Kansas represents not just a game but a chance for California Baptist to showcase their growth and resilience in the world of college basketball. With the eyes of fans and analysts on them, the Lancers are ready to embrace the opportunity that lies ahead.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on California Baptist as they aim to make history and perhaps pull off an upset against a storied program like Kansas.
