The University of Toledo had a winning tradition that was starting to run dry.
After reaching the NCAA tournament in 2017, the Rockets failed to capitalize on the momentum, going 53-44 overall and finishing two games under .500 in the Mid-American Conference over the next three seasons.
In 2020-21 — a season unlike any other with strict protocols, few fans, and canceled games — UT finished ninth in the MAC with an 8-12 record. But the Rockets were 3-1 down the stretch, including a win against then-conference heavyweight Central Michigan. And they had budding freshmen named Sammi Mikonowicz and Khera Goss.