Maryland’s Crab Five and Other Iconic College Basketball Nicknames
March Madness is upon us, and the excitement is palpable. Among the teams entering the tournament with a head of steam are the Maryland Terrapins, who are sporting their highest ranking since 2020. With seven wins in their last eight games, the Terrapins are one of the hottest teams entering the Big Dance. But it’s not just their on-court performance that’s turning heads; it’s their catchy nickname, the “Crab Five,” that has fans buzzing.
Maryland is famous for its crab cakes, and the Terrapins’ basketball team is known for its stellar starting lineup. Combine these elements with a dash of early ’90s nostalgia, and you get the Crab Five. This nickname has captured the imagination of fans and pundits alike, adding an extra layer of intrigue to Maryland’s tournament run.
But Maryland isn’t the only team with a memorable moniker. College basketball history is rich with creative and iconic nicknames that have become synonymous with the teams they represent. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit some of the most unforgettable nicknames in the sport’s history.
Dunk City
School: Florida Gulf Coast
Year(s): 2013
The 2013 Florida Gulf Coast Eagles made a splash in their first NCAA tournament appearance, becoming the first 15-seed to reach the Sweet 16. Their high-flying style of play, characterized by a flurry of dunks, earned them the nickname “Dunk City.” This Cinderella story captured the hearts of basketball fans and remains a beloved chapter in tournament lore.
Press Virginia
School: West Virginia
Year(s): 2008-2023
Under the guidance of Bob Huggins, the West Virginia Mountaineers became known for their relentless defensive pressure. The “Press Virginia” nickname perfectly encapsulated their full-court press strategy, which defined Huggins’ tenure. The Mountaineers reached the Sweet 16 five times and made a memorable run to the Final Four in 2010.
Flintstones
School: Michigan State
Year(s): 2000
The 1999-2000 Michigan State Spartans were led to a national championship by three players from Flint, Michigan: Morris Peterson, Mateen Cleaves, and Charlie Bell. Dubbed the “Flintstones,” this trio’s shared roots and on-court success made them a formidable force. The original Flintstones group also included Antonio Smith and Anthony Mull during the 1997-98 season.
Fab Five
School: Michigan
Year(s): 1992-1993
The 1991-92 Michigan Wolverines freshman class featured Juwan Howard, Chris Webber, Jalen Rose, Jimmy King, and Ray Jackson. Known as the “Fab Five,” this group became one of the most iconic teams in sports history. They reached the national championship game in consecutive years, and their legacy continues to influence basketball culture today.
Lethal Weapon 3
School: Georgia Tech
Year(s): 1990
The 1989-90 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets made their first Final Four appearance thanks to the scoring prowess of Kenny Anderson, Brian Oliver, and Dennis Scott. This trio, known as “Lethal Weapon 3,” accounted for over 75% of the team’s points and led Georgia Tech to an ACC tournament championship.
Flyin’ Illini
School: Illinois
Year(s): 1989
The late 1980s saw the Illinois Fighting Illini earn the nickname “Flyin’ Illini” due to their high-octane offense and penchant for highlight-reel dunks. The team scored over 100 points in eight games and reached the Final Four, leaving a lasting impression on college basketball.
Danny and the Miracles
School: Kansas
Year(s): 1988
The 1987-88 Kansas Jayhawks defied expectations with a national championship run led by star player Danny Manning. Known as “Danny and the Miracles,” this team overcame a 6-seed placement and a 9-5 conference record to win it all, cementing their place in tournament history.
Phi Slama Jama
School: Houston
Year(s): 1982-1984
The Houston Cougars of the early 1980s were known as “Phi Slama Jama” for their dunk-heavy, energetic style of play. Led by future NBA stars Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, the Cougars reached three consecutive Final Fours, leaving an indelible mark on college basketball.
Cardiac Pack
School: North Carolina State
Year(s): 1983
The “Cardiac Pack” nickname for the NC State Wolfpack captured their knack for winning close games. Under coach Jim Valvano, the team won four of their six NCAA tournament games by one possession, culminating in a dramatic national championship victory over Houston’s Phi Slama Jama.
Rupp’s Runts
School: Kentucky
Year(s): 1966
The 1965-66 Kentucky Wildcats were known as “Rupp’s Runts” due to their lack of height, with no starter over 6 feet, 5 inches. Despite this, they won the SEC and reached the national championship game, showcasing their skill and determination.
Originally Written by: J.J. Post
