**DEFINITION:**
The 2023–24 San Diego Toreros men’s basketball team represents the University of San Diego in the NCAA Division I men’s basketball season. Competing in the West Coast Conference (WCC), the team is led by head coach Steve Lavin in his second year at the helm.
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# 2023–24 San Diego Toreros Men’s Basketball Team
The 2023–24 San Diego Toreros men’s basketball team represents the University of San Diego during the 2023–24 NCAA Division I men’s basketball season. The Toreros compete as members of the West Coast Conference (WCC) and play their home games at the Jenny Craig Pavilion in San Diego, California. The team is led by second-year head coach Steve Lavin, who aims to build on the program’s recent progress and compete for a higher standing within the conference.
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## Background
The University of San Diego, a private Roman Catholic university, has a basketball program with a history of competitive play in the West Coast Conference. The Toreros have experienced varying degrees of success over the years, including multiple postseason appearances in the NCAA Tournament and the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). The 2023–24 season marks an important phase as the program seeks to establish itself as a consistent contender under the leadership of Steve Lavin.
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## Previous Season (2022–23)
In the 2022–23 season, the San Diego Toreros finished with an overall record of 11–20 and a conference record of 4–12 in the WCC. The team struggled to find consistency but showed flashes of potential, particularly in close games and against higher-ranked opponents. The season was viewed as a rebuilding year, with Coach Lavin focusing on developing younger players and implementing his system.
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## Offseason
### Coaching Staff Changes
Entering the 2023–24 season, Steve Lavin returns for his second year as head coach. The coaching staff includes assistant coaches John Moore, Tyus Edney, and Patrick Sandle. The staff has emphasized player development, defensive intensity, and a balanced offensive approach during the offseason.
### Player Departures
The Toreros saw several departures following the 2022–23 season due to graduation, transfers, and other reasons. Key players who left the program included seniors who exhausted their eligibility and underclassmen who transferred to other programs seeking more playing time or different opportunities.
### Incoming Transfers
To bolster the roster, San Diego added several transfers from other NCAA programs. These players bring experience and depth to the team, aiming to contribute immediately and help the Toreros compete in the challenging WCC.
### Recruiting Class
The 2023 recruiting class features a mix of high school prospects and junior college transfers. The coaching staff focused on recruiting versatile players capable of fitting into Lavin’s system, emphasizing shooting, defensive versatility, and basketball IQ.
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## Roster
The 2023–24 San Diego Toreros roster includes a blend of returning players, transfers, and freshmen. The team’s core is expected to be led by experienced upperclassmen, supported by promising newcomers. The roster composition aims to balance scoring, defense, and leadership on and off the court.
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## Schedule and Results
### Exhibition Games
The Toreros typically begin their season with one or more exhibition games against non-Division I opponents or local teams. These games serve as preparation and an opportunity to evaluate lineups and strategies.
### Non-Conference Regular Season
San Diego’s non-conference schedule includes a mix of mid-major programs and higher-profile opponents. These games are critical for building team chemistry and establishing a winning culture before entering conference play.
### West Coast Conference Regular Season
The WCC schedule features home-and-away games against conference rivals such as Gonzaga, Saint Mary’s, BYU, and Pepperdine. The Toreros aim to improve upon their previous conference record and compete for a higher seed in the WCC Tournament.
### WCC Tournament
The season culminates with the West Coast Conference Tournament, where the Toreros will seek to secure an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament by winning the conference championship. The tournament is held at a neutral site and features all conference teams in a single-elimination format.
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## Team Strategy and Style of Play
Under Coach Lavin, the Toreros emphasize a balanced offensive attack that incorporates both perimeter shooting and inside scoring. Defensively, the team focuses on man-to-man principles, with an emphasis on limiting opponents’ three-point shooting and forcing turnovers. The coaching staff also prioritizes conditioning and discipline to maintain intensity throughout games.
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## Key Players to Watch
### Returning Leaders
Several returning players are expected to take on leadership roles, both in scoring and defense. These players provide experience and stability, serving as the foundation for the team’s success.
### Impact Transfers
Newcomers from the transfer portal are anticipated to make immediate contributions, bringing collegiate experience and skill sets that complement the returning roster.
### Promising Freshmen
The incoming freshmen class includes players with high potential who may develop into key contributors as the season progresses.
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## Expectations and Outlook
The 2023–24 season is viewed as a pivotal year for the San Diego Toreros. With a year of experience under Coach Lavin’s system, the team aims to improve its conference standing and compete for postseason opportunities. Success will depend on player development, team chemistry, and the ability to perform in close games.
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## Facilities
The Toreros play their home games at the Jenny Craig Pavilion, a 5,100-seat arena located on the University of San Diego campus. The facility provides a competitive home-court advantage and is equipped with modern amenities for players and fans.
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## Media Coverage
San Diego Toreros games are covered by local and regional media outlets, including radio broadcasts and streaming services. The university’s athletic department also provides live statistics, game recaps, and player interviews through its official channels.
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## Historical Context
The San Diego Toreros men’s basketball program has a history dating back to the mid-20th century. While not traditionally a powerhouse, the team has produced notable players and achieved significant milestones, including NCAA Tournament appearances and conference championships. The current coaching staff seeks to build on this legacy and elevate the program’s profile.
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## Summary
The 2023–24 San Diego Toreros men’s basketball team enters the season with renewed optimism and a commitment to growth. Led by Coach Steve Lavin, the team aims to improve its performance in the West Coast Conference and contend for postseason success. With a blend of experienced players and new talent, the Toreros look to make a meaningful impact in the 2023–24 NCAA basketball season.
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**META_DESCRIPTION:**
The 2023–24 San Diego Toreros men’s basketball team competes in the West Coast Conference under head coach Steve Lavin. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the team’s roster, schedule, and season outlook.