March Madness Mascots: A Celebration of College Spirit and Tradition
As the 2025 NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments heat up, fans are not only glued to the thrilling on-court action but are also captivated by the colorful and spirited mascots that bring an extra layer of excitement to the games. While the players battle it out for glory, these mascots are busy winning hearts and adding a unique charm to the tournament atmosphere.
One of the most iconic mascots in college sports is the bulldog. This breed has become synonymous with college athletics, and it’s no surprise that 15 NCAA Division I schools proudly claim the bulldog as their mascot. Among these are the Yale Bulldogs, Drake Bulldogs, and Gonzaga Bulldogs, ensuring that the bulldog remains a beloved fixture in college basketball.
But the bulldog isn’t the only mascot making waves this year. From lovable animals to mascots steeped in school tradition, let’s take a closer look at some of the most memorable mascots in this year’s tournaments.
Men’s Tournament
Montana Grizzlies — “Monte”
Founded in 2014, “Monte” the Grizzly has achieved a rare honor that not all mascots can boast: induction into the Mascot Hall of Fame. Monte earned this prestigious accolade last June, becoming the 10th NCAA mascot and the only one from a current FCS institution to be part of the hall. Known for his signature entrance at football home games, Monte is a true crowd favorite.
UNC Wilmington Seahawks — “Sammy C. Hawk”
The origins of Sammy C. Hawk might be a bit mysterious, but there’s no denying the “aura” that surrounds this mascot. According to Sammy’s Instagram bio, the “C” in their name stands for “championships.” Often seen sporting a teal or white jersey, Sammy C. Hawk is a social media sensation, sharing a day in the life that includes “high fives and hugs.”
Akron Zips — “Zippy”
Zippy the kangaroo is a trailblazer, being one of only eight female mascots in Division I athletics. In November, she signed an NIL deal with the County of Summit ADM Board to promote awareness for behavioral health and support services. Zippy has been the school’s mascot since 1953 and is known for her creative Halloween costumes, including dressing up as Barbie in 2023 and Cher from “Clueless” in 2019.
UC San Diego Tritons — “King Triton”
Making its NCAA tournament debut, UCSD has had the Greek demigod of the sea, King Triton, as its mascot since 1964. With impressive facial hair and a traditional trident, King Triton is a commanding presence on the court.
Saint Mary’s Gaels — “Gael the Mascot”
Saint Mary’s, a 7 seed, is making its fourth consecutive tournament appearance. The term “Gael” refers to a Celtic, especially Gaelic-speaking inhabitant of Ireland, Scotland, or the Isle of Man, as defined by Merriam-Webster. The name was coined by sportswriter Grantland Rice in the 1920s due to the large number of Irish players on the team, according to Saint Mary’s Athletics.
Women’s Tournament
South Dakota State Jackrabbits — “Jack the Jackrabbit”
South Dakota State is unique in having a Jackrabbit as its mascot, a distinction held by no other college or university in the nation, according to the school. “Jack” was named during the school’s 105th-year celebration in 2010, following an online vote where more than 880 people participated, and Jack received 35% of the first-place votes.
William & Mary Tribe — “The Griffin”
No. 16-seeded William & Mary is fighting for a spot in the tournament with a First Four game. Their mascot, the Griffin, is a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of an eagle, as described by Britannica.
Fairfield Stags — “Lucas the Stag”
Fairfield’s mascot, previously known as “The Fairfield Stag,” was named “Lucas the Stag” in honor of longtime Fairfield University administrator and fan, Bill Lucas. Lucas has become a bit of a celebrity, having thrown out the first pitch at a New York Mets game in 2015 and appeared in an ESPN commercial that same year.
- Bulldogs are a popular mascot choice, with 15 NCAA Division I schools featuring them.
- Monte the Grizzly is a Mascot Hall of Fame inductee.
- Zippy the kangaroo is one of only eight female mascots in Division I athletics.
- Jack the Jackrabbit was named in 2010 after an online vote.
Originally Written by: ESPN staff
