In a thrilling finale on April 5, 2026, the Mary Washington Eagles triumphed over the Emory Eagles to win the NCAA Men’s Division III Basketball Championship, marking a historic first national title for the program. The championship game, held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, concluded with a nail-biting score of 75-73, thanks to a buzzer-beater shot by Colin Mitchell.
The game was tightly contested, with both teams showcasing their skills. Kye Robinson led the Eagles with an impressive performance, scoring 27 points, including 12 field goals out of 22 attempts. His contributions were pivotal, as he also recorded 4 assists and 8 rebounds.
Mary Washington’s victory was not just a moment of glory; it was the culmination of a remarkable season, finishing with a record of 30 wins and only 3 losses. This championship win set a new program record for total wins in a season, a feat that underscores the team’s dedication and hard work.
In the semifinals, Mary Washington eliminated the defending champions, Trinity, which set the stage for their championship showdown against Emory. The Eagles’ journey to the title was marked by resilience and teamwork, culminating in this historic achievement.
After the game, Colin Mitchell expressed his confidence in his teammate, stating, “We trusted Kye to get to the spot.” This trust was evident as the team rallied together to secure their victory.
Kye Robinson reflected on the game, saying, “I feel like I was making it kind of hard on myself. And then once I felt my leg buckle a little bit, I was like, ‘Oh, I just have to get it up.’ Definitely the best missed shot of my life.” His humility and acknowledgment of the team’s effort resonated with fans and players alike.
The victory was celebrated not only by the team but also by the community, with Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger tweeting, “Congratulations, @UMW_Basketball! You’ve made Fredericksburg and our entire Commonwealth proud!” This sentiment captures the pride and joy felt across the region.
Mary Washington’s championship win is particularly significant as it represents the first national championship for any men’s team in the university’s history. This milestone is expected to inspire future generations of athletes at the institution.
As the Eagles bask in their victory, the implications of this championship extend beyond the court, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment within the Mary Washington community and beyond.
With this win, the Eagles have not only etched their name in the history of NCAA Men’s Division III basketball but have also set a benchmark for excellence that future teams will aspire to achieve.