Men's Basketball Team Captures MWC Title, Advance to NCAA Tournament

For the first time since 2009, the Grinnell College men’s basketball team has been crowned Midwest Conference regular-season champion, marking a historic milestone in a season defined by momentum and record-setting performances.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Dave Arseneault Jr., alongside assistant coaches D.J. Damazo and volunteer coach Jeff Smith, the Pioneers secured the conference’s top spot and the opportunity to host the Midwest Conference Tournament on their home court.

Grinnell made the most of that opportunity.

The Pioneers captured their second consecutive Midwest Conference Tournament championship — and the first ever inside the new Darby Gymnasium — with a decisive 85–56 victory over Monmouth College Fighting Scots on Saturday, Feb. 28. The dominant performance punctuated a season that has steadily built toward postseason success.

Now, they turn their attention to the national stage.

Grinnell will face John Carroll Blue Streaks men's basketball in the opening round of the NCAA Division III Men's Basketball Tournament on Friday 3/6. The game will be played on the campus of Illinois Wesleyan University as the Pioneers look to extend one of the most successful seasons in program history.

From conference crown to national competition, Grinnell’s championship run continues.