The East Texas A&M Lions have a long and proud history in collegiate athletics, showcasing excellence across multiple sports. Known for their determination and teamwork, the Lions have built a reputation for success, especially in Texas A&M Lions football and East Texas A&M Lions basketball, where their performances have inspired fans for generations.
College Sports Established
1889
Location
Commerce, Texas
College Name
East Texas A&M University
Collegiate History
2022 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2022 - Present / Southland Conference
Nickname
Lions - The nickname "Lions" for East Texas A&M University's athletic teams dates back to the early years of the school's sports history.
East Texas A&M Lions Origin
The first football team at what was then East Texas Normal College was called the "Normalites" in 1915. By 1919, the team adopted the nickname "Lions." This change was possibly inspired by the middle name of the university's founder, William Leonidas Mayo, linking the "Lions" nickname to his middle name, "Leonidas."
Additionally, the lion mascot has deep roots going back nearly to the school's founding in 1917, with the mascot being adopted soon after the school opened its doors.
So, the "Lions" nickname is both a nod to the university's founder and a longstanding symbol that has represented the school's athletic teams for over a century.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1957
- 1996
- 2007
- 2009
- 2017
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Texas A&M Commerce Lions football team wins its first NAIA national championship
In 1957: The Texas A&M Commerce Lions football team wins its first NAIA national championship, defeating Pittsburg State 10-9 in the title game. -
Texas A&M Commerce Lions women’s soccer joins the Lone Star Conference
In 1996: The Texas A&M Commerce Lions women’s soccer team plays its first season as a varsity sport and joins the Lone Star Conference. -
Texas A&M Commerce Lions women’s basketball team reaches the NCAA Division II Elite Eight
In 2007: The Texas A&M Commerce Lions women’s basketball team reaches the NCAA Division II Elite Eight for the first time in school history and wins its first and only Lone Star Conference championship. -
Harvey Martin – Inducted into Hall of Fame
Harvey Martin (1968-1972): Martin played defensive end for the Lions and went on to have a successful career in the NFL. He played for the Dallas Cowboys and was a key member of their “Doomsday Defense” in the 1970s. Martin was named the co-MVP of Super Bowl XII and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. -
Texas A&M Commerce Lions football team wins its third NCAA Division II national championship
In 2017: The Texas A&M Commerce Lions football team wins its third NCAA Division II national championship, defeating West Florida 37-27 in the title game.
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.
East Texas A&M Lions History
The East Texas A&M Lions have built a lasting reputation for excellence and perseverance in collegiate sports. Competing in the Lone Star Conference, the Lions have earned respect across NCAA Division II, especially for their competitive spirit and strong athletic traditions. Their historic rivalry with the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders remains one of the most exciting matchups in college athletics.
The Texas A&M Lions football program began in 1919, quickly becoming a symbol of determination and pride for East Texas. Over the years, the Lions have captured five conference championships, appeared in eight NCAA Division II playoffs, and reached two national championship games. Their remarkable streak of 33 consecutive winning seasons from 1991 to 2019 stands as one of the longest in Division II history.
The roots of the university date back to 1889 when it was founded as East Texas Normal College by William L. Mayo to serve rural Texans through quality education. It later became East Texas State Teachers College in 1917 and East Texas State University in 1965, expanding its academic reach. The institution joined the Texas A&M University System in 1996, adopting the name Texas A&M University-Commerce. This change further elevated the school’s athletic profile and strengthened the East Texas A&M Lions basketball and football programs.
The East Texas A&M Lions basketball team has also played a major role in the school’s athletic growth. Competing fiercely within the Lone Star Conference, the team has produced many memorable seasons and standout athletes. Their commitment to excellence, teamwork, and consistency has made them a respected force in NCAA Division II basketball.
A&M Lions Achievements
The Lions’ success is built on a foundation of discipline, leadership, and school pride. Generations of players have contributed to a culture that values both academic and athletic achievement. The Texas A&M Lions football program continues to inspire new talent, while East Texas A&M Lions basketball aims to build upon its strong tradition of competitiveness and integrity.
Today, the East Texas A&M Lions represent the perfect blend of athletic excellence and educational commitment. From the football field to the basketball court, the Lions’ legacy continues to grow, embodying the perseverance and pride that define both the team and the university.
