Currently, the Portland Pilots men's basketball team is under the leadership of head coach Shantay Legans, who was appointed in 2020. Coach Legans has been recognized for his ability to revitalize teams and attract new talent. In the current season, the Pilots are focused on improving their standings in the WCC following a challenging previous season. They have been actively recruiting promising players and emphasizing skill development. The team plays home games at the Chiles Center, where they enjoy strong local support. The upcoming season includes an exciting non-conference schedule, providing the Pilots with opportunities to build their capabilities against top-tier programs. The community engagement around the team has also been noteworthy, with events aimed at increasing fan interaction and involvement with local schools and businesses. With a renewed sense of purpose and direction, the Portland Pilots are looking to reclaim their status as a competitive force in college basketball.

Portland Pilots Basketball History

The Portland Pilots basketball program, representing the University of Portland, was established in 1905. The team has a rich history in NCAA basketball, initially competing in the early 20th century as part of various smaller leagues before becoming a member of the West Coast Conference (WCC) in 1973. The Pilots have experienced multiple highs and lows throughout their history. In the 1960s, under coach Rev. John McGrath, the team made several appearances in the NCAA tournament, gaining national attention. The highlight of the program came in 1990 when the Pilots reached the Elite Eight of the NCAA tournament, one of the most significant achievements in their history. Players such as Pooh Jeter and future NBA stars like Erik Spoelstra, who later became a highly successful coach, have roots in the Pilots' programs. The team fights to maintain its competitive edge in the WCC, facing longstanding rivals like Gonzaga and Saint Mary's, while nurturing future talents and maintaining a supportive fan base in Portland.