Full Breakdown
Long Island University Sharks: The Rise of "Fins Up" and March Madness
3/21/2026, 5:51:13 AM
The "Fins Up" Phenomenon
Long Island University (LIU) has emerged as a captivating story in the 2026 NCAA Tournament, largely due to the viral "Fins Up" movement. This rallying cry, characterized by fans clapping their hands above their heads to mimic a shark's dorsal fin, began as a local tradition among a small group of dedicated supporters known as "The Reef." The movement was co-founded by Cameron Koffman and David Pochapin, who adopted the struggling LIU basketball program in early 2023 when the team had only three wins that season. Their enthusiasm and commitment to the team helped transform the atmosphere at games, leading to a significant turnaround for the Sharks.
Key Figures Behind the Movement
Koffman and Pochapin, both college basketball enthusiasts without ties to LIU, played a pivotal role in popularizing the "Fins Up" chant. Initially conceived as a lighthearted gesture during opponents' free throws, the chant quickly gained traction, becoming a staple of LIU's home games. The duo's efforts culminated in the formation of the "Fins Up Collective," aimed at supporting the program through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. Their grassroots movement has not only energized the fan base but also attracted national attention, with other schools, including Nebraska, adopting the chant.
The Sharks' Journey to the NCAA Tournament
Under the leadership of head coach Rod Strickland, a former DePaul star and NBA player, the Sharks have experienced a remarkable resurgence. After finishing the previous season with a 12–4 record in the Northeast Conference (NEC), LIU clinched the NEC's automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament by defeating Mercyhurst 79–70 in the conference championship game. This victory marked a significant milestone for a program that had struggled in recent years, finishing with a 24–10 overall record and a 14–1 home record.
Official Statements & Responses
Shadrak Lasu, LIU's starting forward, expressed confidence in the team's preparation for the tournament, stating, "You’ve got to go in with the mindset that you’re going to win." Strickland emphasized the importance of belief and pride, drawing parallels to the success of other underdog teams in NCAA history. The Sharks are aware of the long odds they face as a No. 16 seed against top-seeded Arizona, but their journey has already captured the hearts of fans and commentators alike.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding LIU's success, some skeptics point to the historical challenges faced by No. 16 seeds in the NCAA Tournament, noting that only two have ever defeated a No. 1 seed. Critics argue that the Sharks will need to overcome significant odds to make a deep run in the tournament.
What's Next for the Sharks
As LIU prepares to face Arizona in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, the "Fins Up" movement continues to symbolize the team's journey and the community's support. The matchup is framed as a classic underdog story, with fans eagerly anticipating how the Sharks will perform on the national stage.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Who knew that it would take on such a life of its own?” — David Pochapin, Co-founder of "Fins Up."
- “You’ve got to go in with the mindset that you’re going to win,” — Shadrak Lasu, LIU Forward
- “Our goal from the beginning was to win the regular season, win the conference, and then get to the dance, and then make some noise.” — Rod Strickland, LIU Head Coach
The "Fins Up" movement has not only revitalized LIU basketball but also created a sense of community and excitement that resonates beyond the court, making the Sharks a compelling narrative in this year's NCAA Tournament.
