Basketball was not played these years because World War II had decimated male enrollment at Sam Houston.

Success began early as Sam Houston went 43–11 during its first five years, including an unblemished 24–0 record during its first three.

[5] Due to a lack of funds, it was not until 1924 that the school built the Men's Gymnasium, near the corner of 20th (now Bowers) and Avenue I. Nicknamed the "Cracker Box" Gym, the building was wood framed and lasted until the 1950s.

Its most famous moment, though, did not involve athletics, but a visit by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt in 1937.

Located at 20th (now Bowers) and Avenue H (now Bobby K. Marks Dr), this arena still serves the university today.