Atlanteans Conclude Historic Season at USCAA National Championship with Program-Best 17 Wins
Atlantis University’s men’s basketball team wrapped up a memorable season at the USCAA Basketball National Championship in Buffalo, New York, finishing with a program-best 17 wins. After losing to top-seeded Bloomfield in the first round, the Atlanteans bounced back with a strong 79–65 win over Bryant & Stratton (Ohio) in the consolation game, building momentum for the program’s future.
March 9, 2026
The Atlantis University men's basketball team just finished its best season since the program began in 2021, earning postseason honors, individual achievements, and a spot in the national tournament. After winning the NSAC Conference Tournament and ending the regular season 16–10, the Atlanteans entered the USCAA Basketball National Championship as the No. 8 seed.
They faced top-seeded Bloomfield in the first round, where Bloomfield took control early and won 96–66. The next day, Atlantis bounced back in the consolation game against No. 7 seed Bryant & Stratton (Ohio). Led by Santiago Insaurralde's strong performance and solid
teamwork, Atlantis secured a 79–65 win to finish the tournament on a high note. This victory gave the Atlanteans a final record of 17–11, their best ever, and showed the team's growing strength on the national stage. Atlantis University's momentum started well before the team reached Buffalo. The Atlanteans earned the eighth seed in the USCAA National Championship by winning the NSAC Conference Tournament and finishing the regular season 16–10. Several players received individual honors. Santiago Insaurralde was named NSAC Conference MVP and made First Team All-Conference for his strong play on both offense and defense. Artem Sorokin was chosen for the Second Team, and Folayemi Salako made the Third Team after a steady season. These postseason awards showed that Atlantis had built one of the conference's top rosters.
The national tournament bid was officially revealed on February 24 during Bid Day, confirming Atlantis' place among the nation's top small-college programs. It marked the university's second appearance in the tournament in just five years since the athletic department's creation. The announcement immediately shifted the team's focus toward preparation. Coaches organized twice-daily training sessions emphasizing conditioning, tactical execution, and detailed film study. Scouting reports centered on Bloomfield, the tournament's top seed and the Atlanteans' first opponent.
On Sunday, March 1, Atlantis traveled to Buffalo, New York, giving Coach Frankie and Coach Yahveh their first national championship experience with the team. The event included skill competitions that highlighted Atlantis players. Artem Sorokin took part in the three-point shooting contest, and Folayemi Salako wowed the crowd in the slam dunk contest, reaching the finals and finishing as runner-up.
When the tournament began, Bloomfield showed why they were the top seed by taking an early lead and beating Atlantis 96–66. Salako led Atlantis with 17 points and 10 rebounds, and Insaurralde scored 11 points. Despite the loss, the Atlanteans quickly regrouped for the consolation game. Atlantis answered with one of its best games of the season. Insaurralde led the way with 21 points and 12 rebounds, while Salako added 15 points and 11 rebounds in the 79–65 win over Bryant & Stratton (Ohio). The Atlanteans dominated inside, outscoring their opponent 40–16 in the paint and capitalizing on turnovers to secure the victory. This game showcased the team's resilience and hard work throughout the season.
The tournament run capped a historic year for Atlantis University basketball. The team reached new milestones, with Santiago Insaurralde passing 1,000 career points and Head Coach Hernandez earning his 50th college career win. More importantly, the Atlanteans showed they are quickly rising in college basketball. With a conference championship, a national tournament appearance, and a program-record 17 wins, Atlantis University has set a new standard as it looks forward to next season.