The Yale Princeton basketball rivalry is one of the most historic and intense in the Ivy League. Both Yale University and Princeton University have a long tradition of excellence in basketball, with a combined 21 Ivy League championships between them. The rivalry between the two teams is fueled by their proximity, academic excellence, and a desire to be the best in the Ivy League. In this guide, we will explore the history of the rivalry, notable games, and the current state of the teams.
History of the Rivalry
The Yale Princeton basketball rivalry dates back to the early 20th century, with the first game between the two teams played in 1902. Over the years, the rivalry has grown in intensity, with both teams experiencing periods of dominance. Princeton has had the most success in the rivalry, with 26 Ivy League championships, including a streak of 10 championships in the 1990s. Yale, on the other hand, has won 5 Ivy League championships, with their most recent title coming in 2016.
Notable Games
There have been many notable games in the Yale Princeton basketball rivalry over the years. One of the most memorable games was the 2015 Ivy League playoff game, which Yale won 72-67. The game was played at the Palestra in Philadelphia and was attended by over 5,000 fans. Another notable game was the 2019 matchup between the two teams, which Princeton won 74-65. The game was significant because it marked Princeton’s first win over Yale in three years.
| Year | Game | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Yale vs. Princeton (Ivy League Playoff) | Yale 72, Princeton 67 |
| 2019 | Princeton vs. Yale | Princeton 74, Yale 65 |
| 2020 | Yale vs. Princeton | Yale 76, Princeton 73 |
Current State of the Teams
Both Yale and Princeton have strong basketball programs, with a focus on developing student-athletes who excel both on and off the court. Yale’s team is led by James Jones, who has been the head coach since 1999. Under Jones’ leadership, Yale has won 2 Ivy League championships and has appeared in the NCAA Tournament twice. Princeton’s team is led by Mitch Henderson, who has been the head coach since 2011. Under Henderson’s leadership, Princeton has won 2 Ivy League championships and has appeared in the NCAA Tournament twice.
Key Players
Both Yale and Princeton have talented rosters, with several key players who contribute to their teams’ success. For Yale, point guard Azhar Saddiq is a key player, averaging over 10 points per game. For Princeton, power forward Ethan Wright is a key player, averaging over 12 points per game.
- Azhar Saddiq (Yale) - 10.5 points per game
- Ethan Wright (Princeton) - 12.2 points per game
- Matthue Cotton (Yale) - 8.5 points per game
- Jerome Desrosiers (Princeton) - 9.1 points per game
What is the history of the Yale Princeton basketball rivalry?
+The Yale Princeton basketball rivalry dates back to the early 20th century, with the first game between the two teams played in 1902. Over the years, the rivalry has grown in intensity, with both teams experiencing periods of dominance.
Who are the key players for Yale and Princeton?
+For Yale, key players include Azhar Saddiq and Matthue Cotton. For Princeton, key players include Ethan Wright and Jerome Desrosiers.
What is the current state of the Yale Princeton basketball rivalry?
+Both Yale and Princeton have strong basketball programs, with a focus on developing student-athletes who excel both on and off the court. The rivalry between the two teams is intense and competitive, with both teams vying for dominance in the Ivy League.
