The Gryphon Gazette

By Niam N. ‘26

Every March Madness brings a new Cinderella story. Upset victories and unexpected runs into the national spotlight continuously capture the hearts of fans. But what happens after the confetti settles? Here’s a glimpse into the past for some of the most captivating Cinderella teams of the 21st century.

George Mason (2006) – No.11

• The 11th-seeded Patriots defied odds, reaching the Final Four under Coach Jim Larranaga, who’s success later landed him a coveted Miami job. While George Mason University hasn’t returned to that high since, their national exposure and enrollment had skyrocketed from that point on.
• Elimination: Lost to No.3 Florida 73 – 58 in Final Four

Davidson (2008) – No.10

• Stephen Curry’s electrifying performance on the national stage was a launching pad for his future NBA stardom. Coach Bob McKillop remains at the helm, but Davidson hasn’t replicated that magical NCAA tournament run.
• Elimination: Lost to No.1 Kansas 59 – 57 in Elite Eight

Butler (2010 & 2011):

• The Bulldogs (No.5 in 2010 and No.8 in 2011), under Coach Brad Stevens, became a national name with back-to-back championship appearances. Though Stevens left for the NBA, Butler University continues to be a force, consistently reaching the NCAA tournament.
• Elimination:
  • Lost to No.1 Duke 61 – 59 in 2010
  • Lost to No.3 UConn 53 – 41

VCU (2011)

• That year, the Rams had defied all expectations, going from a First Four invite to the Final Four. VCU has remained a consistent NCAA contender under multiple coaches, a testament to their program’s strength.

Florida Gulf Coast (2013)

• Their high-flying offense and catchy nickname, which was Dunk City, captivated fans. Unfortunately, this magic suddenly faded when Coach Andy Enfield departed in 2013, only 2 years into a 5 year agreement. FGCU hasn’t reached the same heights since.

Loyola Chicago (2018)

• Led by Sister Jean, the Ramblers became a national sensation during their improbable Final Four run. Coach Porter Moser has moved on, but Drew Valentine has the program back in the tournament for consecutive years, proving Sister Jean’s long-lasting influence.

UMBC (2018)

• The Retrievers secured their place in history as the first No. 16 seed to beat a No. 1. Though they haven’t returned to the NCAA tournament, they did pull off another major upset this season.

Oral Roberts (2021)

• The Golden Eagles, publically known to be fueled by dynamic duo Max Abmas and Kevin Obanor made a surprise run to the Sweet 16. However, after a key player transferred, Abmas, Oral Roberts fell short of replicating their Cinderella story this year.

March Madness thrives on the unexpected. While these Cinderellas’ glory days may be over, their stories remind us that anything is possible. With every tournament, new underdogs wait in the wings, ready to write their own chapter in March Madness history.