UCSD Athletics Director Earl Edwards on the Tritons’ Journey to Division I and NCAA Tournament Hopes
In a recent interview on the Braden Surprenant Show, UC San Diego's Director of Athletics, Earl Edwards, sat down to discuss the exciting developments in Tritons' athletics and the remarkable journey that brought the school from Division III to Division II and, most recently, to Division I. As UCSD’s men’s and women’s basketball teams compete for NCAA Tournament bids in their first year of eligibility, Edwards shared insights into the transformation, resilience, and future of UC San Diego athletics.
A Transformative Journey to Division I
UC San Diego's leap from Division III to Division II and, now, to Division I has been a monumental undertaking. Edwards, who has been at the helm since 2000, reflected on the challenges and triumphs during this reclassification period. A significant challenge was the four-year transition from 2020 to 2024, where UCSD was ineligible for NCAA postseason competitions, including March Madness. Despite this, Edwards credits the dedication of the coaching staff and the athletic department for keeping morale high and attracting top talent during the waiting period.
"We were not eligible for March Madness or any NCAA postseason competition during that time," Edwards explained. "But we kept working, and now we are seeing the fruits of that labor. We're in our first year of eligibility and, thanks to the dedication of our staff, coaches, and athletes, we're already seeing success."
Building a Culture of Success Across Multiple Divisions
One of the key factors behind UCSD's sustained excellence has been the culture of success that Edwards and his team have cultivated over the years. Under Edwards' leadership, UCSD has won national championships at the Division III and Division II levels and has consistently ranked among the top schools in the Learfield Directors’ Cup, which measures overall athletic success. This culture of winning has seamlessly carried over into the Division I level.
"It’s all about having the right people," Edwards said. "We’ve been fortunate to have incredible coaches, staff, and support personnel. Whether it’s athletic trainers, marketing staff, or compliance officers, they all play a part in maintaining the high standards we set for ourselves. The culture of success has been deeply ingrained in our program, and it’s something we’ve been able to continue even at the Division I level."
Adapting to a Changing College Athletics Landscape
The landscape of college athletics has changed drastically over the past two decades, and UCSD’s transition to Division I coincided with major shifts in the industry, including conference realignment and the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). For Edwards, adapting to these changes has been a challenge, but one he and his team have embraced.
"Our core value of resilience has been key in navigating these challenges," Edwards shared. "We've always been adaptable and flexible, and that’s how we’ve managed to stay on course despite all the changes in college athletics. The goal has always been the pursuit of excellence, and that remains true as we continue to adjust to the ever-evolving landscape of college sports."
Balancing Academic and Athletic Success
UC San Diego is known for its rigorous academic standards, and Edwards emphasized how critical it is to recruit student-athletes who can excel both in the classroom and on the field. With an average incoming freshman GPA of 4.1, UCSD's athletes must meet high academic standards while also competing at a Division I level.
"We recruit student-athletes who can handle the academic rigor of UC San Diego," Edwards explained. "Our athletes have a higher GPA than the general student population, which shows we are bringing in the right people—academically sound and talented athletes."
This focus on academic excellence doesn’t just help UCSD’s athletes excel in the classroom—it also supports their athletic success. The university’s commitment to providing support systems such as study halls and tutoring ensures that student-athletes can balance their dual commitments.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Media Exposure
As part of its Division I transition, UCSD has invested heavily in improving its athletic facilities. Liontree Arena, the softball field, and the baseball field have all undergone significant renovations, and Edwards is particularly proud of the strides UCSD has made in its media and broadcasting capabilities.
"We’ve worked hard to create state-of-the-art TV production studios to tell the story of UCSD athletics," said Edwards. "Our goal is to create a 'wow' factor—whether it's our facilities, our ESPN+ broadcasts, or our overall brand. We want people to notice us, and we’re putting in the work to make sure that happens."
Edwards also noted the importance of increasing exposure for UCSD athletics, which has historically been more known for its academic prowess than its athletic programs. The goal, he said, is to change that perception by showcasing the high quality of athletic talent at UCSD.
UCSD Basketball Teams on the Verge of NCAA Tournament Glory
One of the most exciting developments for UCSD this season is the success of both the men’s and women’s basketball teams, who are competing in the Big West Championships in their first year of NCAA Tournament eligibility.
The men’s basketball team, under head coach Eric Olin, has posted an impressive 28-4 record and is just two games away from potentially reaching the NCAA Tournament. Edwards praised Olin’s leadership and how the team has evolved from Division II to Division I, setting new standards for success.
"Our men’s basketball team has had an incredible turnaround under Coach Olin," Edwards said. "We’ve been together for over eight years now, and our goal has always been to set the standard, not just be a member of the Big West. I believe we’re on the verge of becoming an elite program."
Edwards is equally excited about the women’s basketball team, which is playing some of its best basketball in recent weeks. He expressed confidence that both teams are capable of making a strong run in the Big West Championship and securing NCAA Tournament bids.
"We’ve seen amazing growth from both teams, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we have two teams heading to March Madness," Edwards concluded.
Looking Ahead
As UCSD’s athletics department continues to grow and evolve, Edwards remains optimistic about the future. With the continued success of its sports programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and the strong support of its community, UCSD is positioning itself as a competitive force in Division I athletics while maintaining its reputation as one of the top academic institutions in the country.
The future looks bright for UC San Diego, and with the Tritons’ basketball teams battling for NCAA Tournament spots this season, it’s clear that UCSD is ready to take its place among the elite programs in college athletics.
For more on the Tritons' journey and updates on their athletic programs, stay tuned to the Braden Surprenant Show.