DePaul Blue Demons

The DePaul Blue Demons play at Wintrust Arena in Chicago's South Loop, bringing Big East basketball to the nation's third-largest city. Under Chris Holtmann, the Blue Demons aim to restore the program to its 1980s glory. DePaul's blue and red colors and Chicago identity create a distinct character. The program has made 22 NCAA Tournament appearances and reached two Final Fours. DePaul's Catholic identity and urban location attract recruits seeking city life. The Blue Demons share Chicago with Loyola, creating a natural city rivalry.

DePaul reached the Final Four in 1979 and 1980 under Ray Meyer, with Mark Aguirre and Terry Cummings leading the way. The Blue Demons were a national power in the late 1970s and 1980s. Quentin Richardson, Bobby Simmons, and Wilson Chandler are among the program's NBA alumni. DePaul joined the Big East in 2005 but has struggled to recapture past success. The program's 1945 NIT championship and 1943 NCAA runner-up finish established DePaul's early pedigree.