The Georgia State Panthers history showcases the university’s growth into a strong NCAA program. Both Georgia State Panthers football and Georgia State Panthers basketball have achieved notable milestones, building a proud tradition of athletic excellence. Their determination and success across multiple sports continue to make the Panthers a respected name in college athletics.
College Sports Established
1913
Location
Statesboro, Georgia
College Name
Georgia Southern University
Collegiate History
1976 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
1976 - 1983, 2014 - Present / Sun Belt Conference
2001 - 2005 / ASUN Conference
1983 - 2001 / Trans America Athletic Conference
Nickname
Panthers - The Georgia State Panthers are one of the country's most recognizable college sports teams. With a long and storied history, it's no surprise that their nickname has become synonymous with excellence. But where did this iconic moniker come from? Let’s examine how the Georgia State Panthers got their name!
Georgia State Panthers Origin
It all began when then-President Dr. Carl Vinson decided to create an athletic program for his school in 1933. He wanted something representing strength and courage, so he chose “Panthers” as its mascot - because panthers were known to be fierce yet graceful hunters who ruled over their domain with power and agility. This was perfect for what he envisioned: A team of strong competitors who could dominate on the field while still displaying grace under pressure during competition.
From there, everything else fell into place – including uniforms featuring black jerseys adorned by white pants (a nod to traditional Panther colors) and a logo featuring an intimidating snarling cat head above-crossed swords (symbolizing strength). Today these symbols have become synonymous with success throughout NCAA athletics – thanks mainly to decades of hard work by coaches, players, and fans alike! So next time you cheer on your favorite team or wear your GSU gear proudly, know that you're supporting more than just another university; You're honoring generations upon generations of Panther pride too!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1956
- 1972
- 2008
- 2022
-
Oldest Sport Played at Georgia State
In 1956, the Panthers began a baseball team, the oldest sport played at Georgia State. Prior to joining the NCAA, no scholarships were given and no sports were part of any national affiliate. -
GSU Sports Arena
The Panthers previously played their home games at the GSU Sports Arena, located at 125 Decatur Street in the heart of the Georgia State campus. The facility was originally built in 1972 as a student gym and classroom space for physical education classes -
Georgia State Launched Football Program
On April 17, 2008, Georgia State launched its football program. On June 12, 2008, former Georgia Tech, Alabama, and Kentucky head coach Bill Curry was named as the Georgia State head coach, working on a 5-year contract. -
Basketball Coach Jonas Hayes
On April 11, 2022, Jonas Hayes was officially introduced as Georgia State’s men’s basketball head coach. Hayes spent the previous four seasons as an assistant coach at Xavier. On March 16, 2022, Hayes was named interim head coach for Xavier, where he led the program to its first NIT championship in 64 years. Xavier’s unexpected run in the NIT included ...
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Georgia State Panthers History
The Georgia State Panthers have built a strong foundation in NCAA athletics, standing out for their fierce rivalry with the Georgia Southern Eagles. Since launching their athletic programs in 1965, the university has grown into a respected competitor in multiple sports. The Georgia State Panthers football and Georgia State Panthers basketball programs, in particular, have helped shape the school’s athletic identity.
Georgia State joined the Sun Belt Conference in 2013 after decades as an independent program. Since then, the Georgia State Panthers football team has rapidly developed into a competitive force, earning several bowl appearances, including the 2017 Cure Bowl victory. The Georgia State Panthers basketball team has also achieved success, capturing multiple Sun Belt titles and NCAA Tournament appearances that energized fans across Atlanta.
Throughout their history, Georgia State athletes have earned numerous honors across various sports. The university has seen success in men’s basketball with seven NCAA Tournament appearances, while the women’s volleyball, baseball, and softball programs have each captured multiple championships. These accomplishments reflect the Panthers’ steady growth and commitment to excellence.
Panthers Achievements
The Georgia State Panthers football program, established in 2010, is one of the youngest yet fastest-growing teams in college football. Despite their short history, they’ve produced standout players and earned respect at the national level. The Georgia State Panthers basketball team has made its mark as well, highlighted by its famous 2015 NCAA Tournament run under Coach Ron Hunter.
In recent years, the Panthers have continued to raise their competitive profile through consistent success in both football and basketball. Their athletes have gone on to professional careers in sports, further boosting the school’s reputation. With continued investment in athletics and facilities, Georgia State remains committed to excellence on and off the field.
The Georgia State Panthers are more than a college team—they represent resilience, growth, and pride. Fans continue to rally behind Georgia State Panthers football and Georgia State Panthers basketball, supporting one of the Sun Belt Conference’s most dynamic programs. The Panthers’ story is still being written, and their future looks brighter than ever.
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