Wheaton College Athletics

The 1956-57 Men’s Basketball team posted a 28-1 record en route to the NCAA College Division championship. The Crusaders went undefeated in CCIW play, won the conference title, and earned a berth in the 32-team NCAA field. Wheaton defeated Minnesota-Duluth and Beloit in regional play to advance to the final eight, hosted by Evansvile. After wins over South Dakota State and Los Angeles State, the Crusaders ripped Kentucky Wesleyan, 81-65, in the championship contest. Freshman Mel Peterson was named most valuable player in the national tournament and was joined on the all-tourney team by teammate Bob Whitehead. The Crusaders were coached by Lee Pfund, a Wheaton Hall of Honor member.