NCAA Basketball: 10 most memorable NCAA Tournament runs of last decade

6. 2018 Loyola-Chicago (MVC, 32-6, 11 Seed)

As was the case with Wichita State coming out of the Missouri Valley in 2013, Loyola-Chicago had the depth and team bond that hinted at a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. For a mid-major from the MVC, the depth of the Ramblers, as well as their team chemistry, were a huge surprise to many.

The backcourt stars were Donte Ingram, Ben Richardson, Clayton Custer, and Marques Townes. Freshman big man, Cameron Krutwig was a pugnacious rebounder that gave opponents endless issues. Not to mention, they had the help of a 98 year-old nun in Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt.

All season long, the Ramblers ran through the MVC while only losing a couple of questionable games in the process. On December 6, they even went into Gainesville and upset the Florida Gators who just so happened to be ranked 5th in the country at the time.

Loyola-Chicago ran through the MVC Tournament, finishing the regular season 28-5; however, they were still not given much respect. on Selection Sunday they were handed an 11 seed and a game against a tough Miami team.

in the First Round, the Ramblers proved they belong. Good ball movement and smart shots were key to allowing them to stick around. With a few seconds left in the game, they found themselves down 62-61. Then, Senior Guard Dante Ingram stepped and nailed a dagger 3 point shot at the buzzer to send the Hurricanes home.

Their Second Round game against Tennessee brought forth similar circumstances. They found themselves down 62-61 with just a few seconds to play, but 2018 MVC Player of the Year, Clayton Custer hit a step back mid-range jumper as he was falling to send the Ramblers to the Sweet 16.

In the Sweet 16, the Ramblers found themselves in yet another close game with Nevada. In the final minute of play, Junior Guard Marques Townes became the hero, hitting a 3 with hands in his face that would determine the outcome of the game. Loyola survived 69-68.

The Elite 8, the Ramblers were fiery yet again, and this time, the game was not close. They advanced to the Final Four with a 78-62 win over Kansas State behind 23 points from Ben Richardson.

In the Final Four, Loyola was overwhelmed by the size and physicality of Michigan. Solid defense from Michigan contained the quick and accurate guards of the Ramblers. They fell to the Wolverines 69-57 but the team chemistry they employed to run through the tournament will always be remembered.