in 2008, davidson defeated the gonzaga bulldogs, georgetown hoyas, and wisconsin badgers to advance to the elite eight. the wildcats nearly made the final four, but lost to the eventual champion kansas jayhawks 59–57. prior to their sweet sixteen matchup, the college's board of trustees supplied students with tickets, transportation and lodging for the sweet sixteen and elite eight games. following the tournament, the wildcats earned a number 9 ranking in the espn/usa today poll. much of this run was due to the play of guard stephen curry, who has since become a two-time nba mvp with the golden state warriors.