The DePaul Blue Demons men’s basketball program continues to struggle in the 2024-25 season, suffering a brutal 105-70 loss to #18 Marquette on February 21, 2025 – their 14th straight defeat in Big East Conference play. This marks the program’s worst conference performance since joining the revamped Big East in 2013.
Recent results show alarming trends:
- 0-14 conference record (last in Big East)
- 8-game losing streak overall
- Average margin of defeat: 18.7 points in conference games
The Blue Demons haven’t won an NCAA Tournament game since 2004, with their last postseason appearance being a runner-up finish in the 2019 College Basketball Invitational. Current head coach Tony Stubblefield faces mounting pressure despite signing a contract extension through 2027.
Historical context magnifies current struggles:
- Only two NCAA Tournament appearances since 2004
- Last conference championship came in 2004 (Conference USA)
- 1-30 record against ranked opponents since moving to Wintrust Arena in 2017
Athletic director DeWayne Peevy recently stated: “We remain committed to building a competitive program that honors DePaul’s rich basketball tradition.” However, alumni groups continue calling for administrative changes, citing:
- $93 million Wintrust Arena underutilization
- Recruiting challenges in transfer portal era
- Declining attendance (averaging 4,112 fans per game)
The program’s last Final Four appearance came in 1979 under legendary coach Ray Meyer, with current facilities and NIL opportunities failing to keep pace with Big East rivals. As March Madness approaches, DePaul fans face another season without postseason basketball – extending what has become one of college basketball’s longest active droughts.
