The Little Rock Trojans represent the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in NCAA athletics with pride and passion. Known for their success in Little Rock Trojans basketball and the steady rise of Little Rock Trojans baseball, the Trojans have built a strong tradition of competition, teamwork, and achievement across multiple collegiate sports.
College Sports Established
1927
Location
Little Rock, Arkansas
College Name
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1931 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1923 - Present / Ohio Valley Conference
1992 - 1922 / Sun Belt Conference
1980 - 1991 / Trans-America Athletic Conference
1978 - 1979 / Independent
1962 - 1977 / Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference
1931 - 1979 / Independent
Nickname
Trojans - The Little Rock Trojans are among the most storied NCAA teams in college sports. With a long and successful history, it's no wonder that their nickname has become iconic. But where did the name “Trojan” come from?
Little Rock Trojans Origin
It all started in 1912 when The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) was founded as an extension campus for what is now known as the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. UALR had two nicknames in its early days: "the Teachers" and "the Pioneers." However, neither seemed to gain traction with students or fans, so they decided to look elsewhere for a more fitting name.
After much deliberation, they settled on “Trojans” for their association with strength and courage - traits that embody UALR's spirit even today! This new moniker quickly caught on among students who began referring to themselves proudly as “Little Rock Trojans." As time passed, this nickname became synonymous with success on and off the field, which helped solidify it into college sports lore forever!
Today you can find countless references to this proud team across various mediums, including apparel stores near campus or online retailers such as Amazon or eBay selling official merchandise featuring their logo – ensuring everyone knows who these brave athletes represent! While some may not be familiar with why exactly Little Rocks' mascot is called a Trojan horse – those who do know understand how special this symbol truly is, representing courage & resilience throughout generations of collegiate athletics excellence here in Central Arkansas since 1912.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1983
- 2001
- 2007
- 2019
-
Little Rock Torjans Basketball in NCAA
In 1983 UALR men’s basketball team makes its first NCAA Tournament appearance, losing in the first round. -
LR Torjans Men’s Soccer First time in NCAA
In 2001 UALR men’s soccer team makes its first NCAA Tournament appearance, losing in the first round. -
Ryan Mallett Football Legend of LR Torjans
Ryan Mallett Played football for the Trojans in 2007 after transferring from the University of Michigan. He threw for over 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns in his lone season with the Trojans, earning Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Year honors. Mallett was drafted by the New England Patriots and played six seasons in the NFL. -
Baseball team wins the Sun Belt Conference
In 2019 UALR baseball team wins the Sun Belt Conference Tournament and makes its third NCAA Tournament appearance, losing in the regional round.
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.
Little Rock Trojans History
The Little Rock Trojans have built a proud legacy in NCAA athletics, representing the University of Arkansas at Little Rock with passion and determination. Since their athletic programs began in 1920, the Trojans have grown from an independent team to a respected competitor in Division I. Their move to the Ohio Valley Conference in 2022 (after departing the Sun Belt Conference) marked another major milestone in the ongoing journey of the Little Rock Trojans. Over the years, they have earned recognition for excellence in Little Rock Trojans basketball, Little Rock Trojans baseball, and other sports that define the university’s athletic tradition.
The Little Rock Trojans basketball program has been one of the most notable in the university’s history. During the mid-20th century, the team established itself as a rising force, claiming five conference championships between 1955 and 1980. The Trojans made two appearances in national championship games during that time, narrowly falling to Jacksonville State University in both contests by just three points. Under head coach Paul Hogue in the 1980s, Little Rock Trojans basketball achieved seven consecutive winning seasons and overcame challenges such as recruiting sanctions that temporarily limited postseason play. Their resilience and talent made them a team respected across collegiate basketball.
The Little Rock Trojans baseball program has also played a major role in shaping the school’s athletic identity. Between 1973 and 1989, the team made six appearances in the College World Series and claimed back-to-back national titles in 1979 and 1980. These years marked a golden era for Little Rock Trojans baseball, producing standout players such as Jeff King. King, who was named National Player of the Year in 1985, became the first overall pick in the 1986 MLB Draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates and went on to enjoy a successful 14-year professional career, earning four MLB All-Star selections.
Trojans Achievements
While basketball and baseball have been the cornerstone of their legacy, the Little Rock Trojans also achieved memorable moments in football during the 1990s under legendary head coach Joe Lee Dunn. In 1998, the Trojans reached the Division I-AA (now FCS) playoffs for the first time in school history. Though they eventually fell to the Montana Grizzlies in the quarterfinals, their playoff appearance was a defining achievement that showcased the program’s determination and fighting spirit.
Throughout their history, the Little Rock Trojans basketball and Little Rock Trojans baseball programs have continued to represent excellence, teamwork, and school pride. Both teams have contributed significantly to the university’s athletic reputation, consistently producing top-tier talent and unforgettable performances.
Today, the Little Rock Trojans remain a source of pride for their fans, alumni, and community. Whether competing in basketball, baseball, or other NCAA sports, they embody the values of perseverance and sportsmanship. With every season, the Little Rock Trojans continue to build on their historic legacy and inspire future generations of student-athletes to carry forward the university’s winning tradition.
