1 week Ago By Julian Del Gaudio
(FOX 5/KUSI) — Hoop Dreams become reality as Torero Basketball relaunches with its brand-new state-of-the-art performance center.“It’s a statement,” said Torero Men’s Basketball Head Coach Steve Lavin. “It represents the commitment the University of San Diego has to athletics and specifically men’s and women’s basketball.
”“To bring in players and prospects from all over the country and have them realize that USD is making an investment into basketball and being able to elevate the standard of excellence is huge,” said Women’s Basketball Head Coach Blanche Alverson.”I think it does bring an excitement and an opportunity to really have our student-athletes performing at a higher level. For recruits to come in and we’re able to show them this to start their foundation and start our culture here.
I think it’s a great way to kick it off,” Alverson said. The 28,000-square-foot project broke ground in March of 2023 and cost $35 million.Features of the new center include a viewing terrace, hydrotherapy facility, team lockers, lounges, coaches' offices and a film room.
”In a sense, this is a re-launch,” continued Lavin, who embarks on his 4th season with USD. ”We’re in a revolutionary era in college athletics and it’s the first time since I’ve been here where we have alignment.”With roster space, revenue share funding from NIL, and this new performance center, Lavin and Anderson now have the complete pitch.
”You put those three together, with USD tradition, in a world-class academic institution in our location in San Diego, it’s a pretty difficult situation not to be impressed with if you’re a student athlete or parent prospect,” continued Lavin.“I think we can be an NCAA Tournament team, I really do,” added USD Athletic Director Kimya Massey. “I think that can happen sooner than five years.
I really have high expectations, and I talk to our staff about it all the time. There’s no reason why we can’t win WCC championships, will be nationally ranked in a multitude of sports.”.
