The Buffalo Bulls represent Buffalo Bulls University with pride, competing across multiple NCAA sports. Known for their determination and growth, the Buffalo Bulls football program has played a key role in shaping the school’s athletic success. With decades of progress, the Bulls continue to inspire fans and athletes throughout the Mid-American Conference.
College Sports Established
1846
Location
Buffalo, New York
College Name
University at Buffalo
Collegiate History
1991 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
1998 - Present / MAC Conference
1994 - 1998 / Mid-Continent Conference
1991 - 1994 / East Coast Conference
Nickname
Bulls - The Buffalo Bulls are one of the most storied teams in NCAA Division I athletics, but many sports fans may not know where their nickname comes from. The origin of the Buffalo Bulls dates back to when they first joined the Mid-American Conference (MAC) in 1998.
Buffalo Bulls Origin
When it came time for them to choose a mascot and nickname, they decided on something that would honor their city’s history while representing a solid and robust animal – hence, “Buffalo Bulls” was born! As you can guess by its name, this team is named after both buffalo and bulls – two animals known for being tough competitors with an intense spirit. Not only does this make sense given Buffalo's location near Niagara Falls, where there were once large herds of bison roaming free across North America, but it also serves as a symbol of strength, which all athletes strive to embody during competition.
In addition to honoring local wildlife through its name choice, “Bulls” has another special significance - it pays homage to some famous former residents who made significant contributions towards helping shape our country: President Millard Fillmore & First Lady Abigail Powers Fillmore lived in East Aurora NY (just outside of Buffalo). Their legacy lives on today through various landmarks throughout Western New York, including UB's Alumni Arena, which bears his full name, "Millard H.Fillmore."
So next time you cheer on your favorite college team or watch them play at home or away, remember why we call them "the Bull" - no matter how fierce the competition gets, these mighty mammals will always stand tall!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1894
- 1986
- 2015
- 2018
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The University of Buffalo fields its first football team
In 1894, the University of Buffalo (UB) formed its first football team, which played its first game on November 24 of that year. The team was coached by Frank Butterworth, a former Harvard University football player, and consisted of mostly UB medical students. The team played their home games at a field located near Main Street and Fillmore Avenue in ... -
Buffalo Bulls win their first MAC championship in baseball
In 1986, the Buffalo Bulls baseball team won their first Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship. Coached by Bill Breene, the Bulls finished the season with a 30-13 record, including a 13-7 record in MAC play. The Bulls’ road to the championship began with a 4-0 victory over the Western Michigan Broncos in the MAC tournament semifinals. In the championship game, the ... -
Buffalo Bulls win their first MAC championship in men’s basketball
In 2015, the Buffalo Bulls men’s basketball team won their first-ever Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship. Coached by Bobby Hurley, the Bulls finished the season with a 23-9 record, including a 12-6 record in MAC play. The Bulls’ road to the championship began with a 88-74 victory over Central Michigan in the MAC tournament quarterfinals. In the semifinals, the Bulls faced ... -
Javon McCrea – Buffalo Athletics Hall of Fame in 2018
Javon McCrea was a standout basketball player for the University at Buffalo Bulls from 2010 to 2014. During his time at UB, McCrea became one of the most decorated players in program history, earning multiple conference honors and leading the Bulls to their first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance in 2015. McCrea’s impressive career at UB earned him a place in the ...
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Buffalo Bulls History
The Buffalo Bulls have built a proud tradition of athletic excellence, representing Buffalo Bulls University across multiple NCAA sports. From early beginnings to becoming a respected member of the Mid-American Conference (MAC), the Buffalo Bulls football and basketball programs have showcased consistency, talent, and dedication. Their spirited rivalry with Ball State Cardinals remains a highlight of their competitive legacy.
Founded in 1894, the Buffalo Bulls University athletic program started small but grew rapidly into a force in college sports. The Buffalo Bulls football team began gaining recognition after World War II and rose under coach Jim Hofher, who led them from 1990 to 1998. During this period, Buffalo earned multiple postseason appearances and captured two MAC Championships in 1996 and 1998. Their 2008 International Bowl appearance against UConn in Toronto was a landmark moment, marking the Bulls’ first bowl game at the FBS level.
In the years that followed, the Buffalo Bulls football team continued to strengthen its presence, adding more bowl games to its history. The 2012 MAC Championship win over Northern Illinois University remains one of the program’s most celebrated achievements. That same season, quarterback Joe Licata earned MVP honors at the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl after delivering four touchdown passes. These milestones helped cement Buffalo’s reputation as a resilient and competitive football program.
Bulls Achievements
While football has driven much of the school’s national attention, the Buffalo Bulls University basketball program has also made history. Under coach Bobby Hurley, the Bulls reached new heights during the 2015–16 season, advancing deep into the NCAA Tournament. Their thrilling run to the Elite Eight captured national attention, making Buffalo one of the most respected mid-major programs in modern college basketball.
Over the years, the Buffalo Bulls have shown remarkable growth across all sports. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond the field, representing the heart of Buffalo Bulls University athletics. With their continued success in Buffalo Bulls football, basketball, and other programs, the Bulls have proven to be a powerful symbol of perseverance and pride for fans across the nation.
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