The Lindenwood Lions represent Lindenwood University in NCAA athletics with a growing legacy in multiple sports. Known for their strong performances in Lindenwood Lions football and Lindenwood Lions basketball, the program continues to build its reputation for excellence, determination, and sportsmanship while competing at the highest collegiate level across various athletic divisions.
College Sports Established
1827
Location
St. Charles, Missouri
College Name
Lindenwood University
Collegiate History
2015 - Present / NCAA Division I
2010 - 2014 / NCAA Division II
Conference History
2022 - Present / Ohio Valley Conference
2019 - 2022 / Great Lakes Valley Conference
2012 - 2019 / Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association
Nickname
Lions - The Lindenwood Lions are an NCAA Division II program in St. Charles, Missouri that competes in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA). The school has long been known for its vital athletics programs, and its mascot is one of the most recognizable symbols on campus. But where did this iconic nickname come from?
Lindenwood Lions Origin
It all started with an old family legend about two lion cubs found near a Linden tree on the original site of Lindenwood University. According to this story, these two lions were adopted by local farmers who raised them as pets and eventually gave them to the university when it was founded in 1827. This tale became so popular that it inspired students and faculty alike to adopt “Lions” as their official nickname for athletic teams at Lindenwood University – thus making history!
Today, you can find many references around campus to show how much pride everyone takes in being part of such an incredible legacy: From our Lion statue outside Spellmann Center, which proudly stands guard over our athletic fields, To our new team logo featuring two roaring lions flanking either side of “Lindy;” And even down to small details like having lion paw prints embedded into sidewalks across campus – there is no doubt that we take great pride representing ourselves as true Lions!
So next time you cheer on your favorite athletes wearing blue & gold or catch yourself singing along with fellow fans during pregame rituals, remember this piece of history behind why we call ourselves "the mighty Lindenwood Lions"!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1996
- 2009
- 2013
- 2019
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Lindenwood Football First NAIA Season
In 1996 Lindenwood football team competes in its first NAIA season, finishing with a 7-2 record. -
Lindenwood joins MIAA
In 2009 Lindenwood joins the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) in NCAA Division II. -
Pierre Desir
Pierre Desir Played cornerback for Lindenwood from 2009-2013. He was a two-time All-American and was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2014. He has played in the NFL for several teams, including the New York Jets and the Indianapolis Colts. -
Lindenwood men’s soccer team Champion
In 2019 Lindenwood men’s soccer team wins the MIAA regular-season championship.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Lindenwood Lions History
The Lindenwood Lions have built a proud legacy in collegiate athletics that reflects the university’s growth and dedication to sports excellence. Founded in 1827 in St. Charles, Missouri, Lindenwood University began competing in intercollegiate athletics in the early 1900s. Over the years, the Lindenwood Lions have developed into one of the most respected athletic programs, known for excellence in Lindenwood Lions football, Lindenwood Lions basketball, and many other NCAA sports.
The Lindenwood Lions basketball program gained national attention for its remarkable success at the NCAA Division II level. Under head coach Brad Soderberg, the team won back-to-back Division II National Championships during the 2014–15 seasons. The Lions went undefeated during that span, posting an incredible 51–0 record across two seasons. This dominant run made the Lindenwood Lions basketball program a symbol of consistency, teamwork, and skill, firmly establishing it as a powerhouse before transitioning into Division I competition.
When the Lindenwood Lions basketball team made the jump to NCAA Division I in 2017, they continued to thrive. Between 2018 and 2021, the Lions reached four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, including a memorable Sweet 16 run in the 2019–20 season after defeating the #3 seed Purdue. Their continued success in Division I reflects Lindenwood’s strong recruitment, coaching, and player development, marking them as one of the most promising mid-major basketball programs in the nation.
Lions Achievements
The Lindenwood Lions football program has also been a cornerstone of the university’s athletic identity. Competing in NCAA Division I FCS, the Lions have earned respect through their competitive play and conference success. Before their transition to Division I, the Lindenwood Lions football team achieved several Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) championships and produced standout athletes who went on to professional careers. Their balanced offensive strategies and strong defense have made them consistent contenders within their division.
Beyond basketball and football, the Lindenwood Lions excel in multiple sports, including soccer, volleyball, and track and field. The university’s commitment to athletic excellence extends beyond competition, emphasizing academic achievement and community engagement. Lindenwood athletes regularly participate in local outreach initiatives, reflecting the school’s mission to build character and leadership both on and off the field.
The achievements of Lindenwood Lions basketball and Lindenwood Lions football continue to inspire future generations of student-athletes. Their history is defined by perseverance, skill, and unity — qualities that have helped the Lions evolve into a formidable force in NCAA athletics. With dedicated coaches, talented players, and loyal fans, the Lindenwood Lions are poised to keep adding new chapters of success to their ever-growing story.
