California defeated Stanford in the final, 9–8, to win their sixth national title. Coached by Pete Cutino, the Golden Bears finished the season 26–4–1.
Mike Grier (Pepperdine) was named the Most Outstanding Player of the tournament. An All-Tournament Team, consisting of seven players, was also named.
Since there has only ever been one single national championship for water polo, all NCAA men's water polo programs (whether from Division I, Division II, or Division III) were eligible. A total of 8 teams were invited to contest this championship.