George Mason Patriots

The George Mason Patriots play at EagleBank Arena in Fairfax, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C. Under Tony Skinn, the Patriots aim to recapture the magic of the 2006 Final Four run. Mason's green and gold colors and suburban D.C. location create unique opportunities. The program competes in the Atlantic 10 and has established itself as a consistent mid-major. EagleBank Arena's 10,000-seat capacity creates a strong home environment. George Mason's rapid rise from commuter school to basketball power reflects the D.C. area's growth.

George Mason's 2006 Final Four run remains one of the most shocking in NCAA Tournament history, as the 11-seed Patriots defeated Michigan State, North Carolina, and Connecticut before falling to Florida. Jim Larrañaga built the program from obscurity to national relevance. The Patriots have made five NCAA Tournament appearances. George Mason joined the Atlantic 10 in 2013 after success in the Colonial Athletic Association. The 2006 run put mid-major basketball on the map.