Key Figures in GMU Basketball

Behind every great team are the people who made it happen, and George Mason's 2006 run to the Final Four wouldn't have been possible without a core group of coaches and players who believed they could do the impossible.

Coach Jim Larrañaga was the heart of that team. His leadership, calm confidence, and belief in his players helped fuel their underdog run. He turned a mid-major program into a national story, and his passion made him a fan favorite on and off campus.Among the standout players was Tony Skinn, known for his speed and confidence. Jai Lewis, the powerful forward, brought strength and size that gave opponents serious problems. Will Thomas, known for his work ethic and consistency, was a quiet force throughout the season. These players didn’t just rack up stats, they played with heart and grit that defined the team’s identity.Each of these figures played a part in one of the most unforgettable stories in college basketball, and their legacy still echoes through the halls of EagleBank Arena today.