What began as a quest for a college basketball team to support has unexpectedly transformed the Long Island University Sharks’ home court into a vibrant spectacle. David Pochapin and Cameron Koffman, initially seeking a local team to follow in early 2023, found themselves at a sparsely attended game between LIU and St. Francis Brooklyn. Despite the low turnout and the peculiar smell of chlorine from the adjacent swimming pool, they recognized the unique intimacy of the venue and felt a calling to build a dedicated fan base.

Inspired by the close proximity to the court, Pochapin and Koffman decided to commit to attending LIU games, inviting friends and family along the way. This core group quickly established traditions, dubbing their courtside area “the Reef” and the gym itself “the Shark Tank.” They even distributed branded T-shirts to boost attendance and create a unique atmosphere during games, seeking to inject energy into a program that had struggled in previous seasons.

The fan efforts seemed to coincide with a turnaround for the LIU Sharks on the basketball court. Under coach Rod Strickland, the team showed incremental improvement each year, moving from a 3-26 record in Pochapin and Koffman’s initial season to a more respectable 7-22 the following year, and then achieving a winning 17-16 record. This season, the Sharks have significantly elevated their performance, reaching a 24-10 record and boasting one of the best home-court advantages in the nation.

A signature chant, “FINS UP,” has become a rallying cry for the team and its burgeoning fan base. During free throw attempts, Pochapin leads the crowd in yelling the slogan while clapping hands overhead, a moment captured and shared widely online. This fan-driven momentum has not only energized the team but also brought national attention to the once-overlooked program and its unique, pool-scented arena.

Following their recent NEC quarterfinal victory against Chicago State, a video emerged showcasing the marching band director actively participating in the “fins up” chant, further demonstrating the unified spirit. This fan-led resurgence has turned a nearly empty gymnasium into a place of palpable excitement, suggesting that the LIU Sharks are poised for further success with their passionate supporters in tow.