INDIANA, Pa. — As the regular season winds down, both the Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) men’s and women’s basketball programs find themselves on the cusp of significant postseason achievements.
The IUP women’s basketball team has a chance to secure the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) West Division title with a win against California University of Pennsylvania on Wednesday. The men’s team, meanwhile, is focused on earning a first-round bye in the upcoming PSAC Tournament, a goal they can achieve with two victories this week.
Both programs are also receiving national attention. The IUP women’s team is currently ranked No. 5 in the nation with a record of 23-1. The men’s team has re-entered the top 25, holding the No. 24 spot. IUP is one of only five universities nationwide to have both its men’s and women’s basketball teams ranked in the national polls.
The Crimson Hawks are scheduled to travel to California, Pennsylvania, for a Wednesday matchup before returning to the Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex for Senior Day on Saturday.
The women’s team’s pursuit of the PSAC West Division title comes as they maintain a dominant record. A victory on Wednesday would cement their position as division champions and provide a favorable seed in the conference tournament. The team’s success has been fueled by a strong overall performance throughout the season, earning them national recognition and a No. 5 ranking.
For the men’s team, securing a first-round bye in the PSAC Tournament is a key objective. This would allow them to bypass the initial round of competition and advance directly to the quarterfinals, increasing their chances of a deep tournament run. Two wins this week would guarantee that bye, providing a significant advantage as they navigate the postseason.
The fact that both IUP basketball programs are nationally ranked underscores the strength of the university’s athletic program. Being among only five institutions with both teams in the top 25 highlights the commitment to excellence in both men’s and women’s basketball at IUP. This dual recognition is a testament to the dedication of the players, coaches, and support staff.
The upcoming games represent a crucial juncture for both teams. The women’s game against California University of Pennsylvania is a direct opportunity to clinch the division title, while the men’s team’s two games this week will determine their tournament seeding. The outcomes of these contests will have a significant impact on each team’s postseason journey.
Senior Day on Saturday at the Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex will be a special occasion for the IUP basketball programs. It will be an opportunity to honor the contributions of the graduating players and celebrate their careers with the Crimson Hawks. The home game will also provide a boost of energy and support as both teams continue their pursuit of postseason success.
