The Baylor Bears are one of the most recognizable programs in college sports, known for excellence across multiple sports. From thrilling Baylor Bears football seasons to championship runs in Baylor Bears basketball, the university has created a legacy of success and passionate fan support that continues to shape its historic athletic programs.
College Sports Established
1890
Location
Waco, Texas
College Name
Baylor University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1922 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1996 – Present / Big 12 Conference
1915 - 1996 / Southwest Conference
Nickname
Bears - Sports fans of the Baylor Bears know their team is one of history's most successful NCAA teams. But many don't know how this beloved mascot got its name.
Baylor Bears Origin
The origin story behind the Baylor Bears nickname dates back to 1914 when a group of students at Baylor University decided they wanted to create a new school spirit and identity for their athletic teams. After much deliberation, they chose “Bears” as an homage to early settlers who lived near Waco Creek—the creek that runs through campus today—and were known for hunting bears in the area.
The students then designed a logo featuring two black bears facing each other with paws raised in victory, which has been used ever since on all official university merchandise and apparel bearing the "Baylor Bears" moniker. In addition to being featured on uniforms worn by athletes during games and competitions, it can also be seen around campus buildings such as McLane Stadium or Ferrell Center, where various sports are held throughout year-round events like Homecoming celebrations or March Madness tournaments!
With over 100 years' worth of tradition backing them up, it's no wonder why so many people have come together under one banner: Go Bears! Whether you're cheering from your couch at home or joining fellow fans inside stadiums across Texas (or even beyond!), there's nothing quite like showing off your support for this iconic team every time they take center stage - win or lose!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 3
2019, 2012, 1005
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 2013
- 2019
- 2021
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Baylor Bear Brittney Griner
Griner played college basketball at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. As a freshman, Griner’s 223 blocked shots set the all-time single-season record, establishing her as one of the greatest shot blockers in women’s basketball history. On December 16, 2009, Griner recorded Baylor’s first triple-double with 34 points, 13 rebounds, and Big 12 Conference record 11 blocked shots. In January 2010, ... -
Lady Bears NCAA Basketball Champions 2019
The 2018–19 Baylor Lady Bears basketball team represented Baylor University in the 2018–19 NCAA Division I women’s basketball season. Returning as head coach was Hall of Famer Kim Mulkey for her 18th season. The team played its home games at the Ferrell Center in Waco, Texas, and were members of the Big 12 Conference. They finished the season ranked #1 ... -
Baylor Bears Complete a 21 – 1 Season With Championship
The Baylor Bears were crowned as the national champion for the 2020–21 season after beating the then-undefeated Gonzaga Bulldogs, 86–70. The game was played on April 5, 2021, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. Gonzaga was the first team to enter the national championship game undefeated since Indiana State in 1979. Baylor became the second consecutive first-time NCAA champions ...
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Baylor Bears History
The Baylor Bears are one of the NCAA’s most iconic athletic programs, earning national recognition through a long tradition of success. Based in Waco, Texas, this private university has built a proud athletic culture that spans over a century. From thrilling rivalries with the TCU Frogs to unforgettable championships, the Baylor Bears have become a cornerstone of college sports excellence.
The Baylor Bears football program began in 1899 and steadily grew into one of the top teams in college football. Over the years, Baylor Bears football has captured two Southwest Conference titles and three Big 12 Championships since joining the conference in 1996. The program also boasts five bowl victories, including wins over powerhouse programs like Oklahoma State, Auburn, and West Virginia, cementing its place among elite teams.
On the hardwood, Baylor Bears basketball has risen to national prominence under head coach Scott Drew. Since taking over in 2003, Drew transformed the team from turmoil into a consistent tournament contender. The program has made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including two Elite Eight finishes, and has developed NBA-level talent such as Quincy Acy, Taurean Prince, and Isaiah Austin. The recent surge of success has positioned Baylor Bears basketball as one of the most respected programs in the country.
Beyond football and basketball, the Baylor Bears excel in numerous other sports. The tennis program has produced four individual NCAA champions and multiple All-Americans. Baseball has seen many players drafted into Major League Baseball. Volleyball advanced to the Final Four twice, in 2011 and 2012, while softball earned a Women’s College World Series title in 2017. Track and field athletes have also represented the U.S. in the Olympic Games, reflecting the broad athletic strength of Baylor Bears programs.
Bears Achievements
In recent years, Baylor Bears football and Baylor Bears basketball have both achieved milestone victories, bringing national championships and conference titles back to Waco. These achievements have not only elevated the university’s status but also energized the fan base, known for their passionate support and tradition-rich game days.
With a history of perseverance, excellence, and leadership, the Baylor Bears continue to set the standard in collegiate athletics. Whether it’s the intensity of Baylor Bears football, the dominance of Baylor Bears basketball, or the success of its other programs, Baylor University stands as a beacon of athletic pride and achievement for generations to come.
