The VCU Rams men’s basketball team is heating up at the perfect time, entering Friday, February 06 2026, on a dominant six-game winning streak. Under the leadership of first-year head coach Phil Martelli Jr., the Rams have solidified their position as a top contender in the Atlantic 10 Conference, boasting an impressive 17-6 overall record and an 8-2 mark in conference play.
Rams Dominating the Atlantic 10
VCU’s recent surge has been defined by a balanced attack and a stifling defense that currently ranks among the best in the nation. The Rams recently secured a gritty 77-69 victory over cross-town rival Richmond and followed it up by erasing a 15-point deficit to roll past Loyola Chicago 89-75. This momentum has propelled VCU to a KenPom ranking of #35, making them a dangerous “bracket buster” candidate as March Madness approaches.
The 2025-26 roster has found its rhythm with a starting backcourt featuring Nyk Lewis and Ahmad Nowell. Other key contributors include Brandon Jennings, Jadrian Tracey, and Barry Evans. The team’s depth was on full display in recent outings, with the bench supplying a massive 51 points in a single contest to keep the winning streak alive.
Historical Context and Coaching Transition
The 2025-26 season marks a new era for the program following the departure of Ryan Odom to Virginia. Phil Martelli Jr. has stepped in seamlessly, maintaining the program’s winning tradition. Historically, VCU has been a powerhouse in mid-major basketball, holding an all-time record of 1,073-564 (.655 winning percentage) since 1973. With 20 NCAA Tournament appearances and legendary runs to the Elite Eight (1985) and Final Four (2011), the current squad is looking to add another chapter to the school’s storied history.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Pittsburgh
As the regular season enters its final stretch, the Rams are focused on securing a top seed for the Atlantic 10 Men’s Basketball Championship, which returns to PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh from March 11-15. Analysts currently project VCU as a lock for the postseason, with Bleacher Report noting that the Rams lead the nation in effective field-goal percentage defense—a metric that often correlates with deep tournament runs.
Fans can catch the Rams in action as they prepare for a high-stakes clash against Dayton, a matchup that could determine the regular-season conference champion. With an 11-2 record at home this season, the “Animal Lab” at the Siegel Center remains one of the toughest environments for opposing teams in college basketball.