The Memphis Tigers are known for their proud tradition in college athletics. From the thrilling plays of Memphis Tigers football to the championship runs of Memphis Tigers basketball, the program has built a strong reputation. With decades of memorable games and standout athletes, the Tigers remain a powerhouse in NCAA sports history.
College Sports Established
1912
Location
Memphis, Tennessee
College Name
University of Memphis
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1928 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
2013 - Present / American Athletic Conference
1995 - 2013 / Conference USA
1973 - 1996 / Independent
1968 - 1973 / Missouri Valley Conference
1941 - 1968 - Independent
1935 - 1941 / Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association
1928 - 1934 / Mississippi Valley Conference
Nickname
Tigers - Regarding college sports, the Memphis Tigers have a long and storied history. From their days as an independent school in the late 1800s to becoming members of Conference USA in 2013, they’ve been a powerhouse on the field for decades. But where did their nickname come from? Let’s take a look at how this iconic moniker got its start.
Memphis Tigers Origin
The origins of Memphis' beloved mascot can be traced back to 1909 when football coach William Humes chose "Tigers" as his team's name after seeing an advertisement for Clemson University's teams which were then known as “The Tigers." The idea was that if one successful program could use such an intimidating name, why couldn't another? And so began one of college sports' most recognizable nicknames: The Memphis Tigers!
Since then, several variations of the classic tiger logo have been used by different teams. No matter which version you see today, it all points back to that original decision made over 100 years ago. While some may argue about whether or not tigers are native animals found in Tennessee (they aren't), there is no doubt that this fierce animal has become synonymous with strength and courage – two qualities every great athlete needs!
As we move into 2020 and beyond, we will continue seeing these proud felines prowling around Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium during home games while providing fans with plenty of excitement throughout each season - something they've done since first taking up residence nearly 111 years ago! So next time you're cheering on your favorite Tiger squad, remember just how far they've come since Coach Humes decided he wanted his team named after those brave Clemson cats... Go TIGERS!!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1939
- 1994
- 2008
- 2014
- 2019
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Tigers becomes the official nickname for the University of Memphis
In 1939: The nickname Tigers becomes the official nickname for the University of Memphis. -
Pro Football Hall of Fame – Issac Bruce
Bruce originally signed his letter of intent to play college football for the Purdue Boilermakers in 1990, but his SAT scores were too low for Purdue to accept him. Bruce then decided to attend West Los Angeles College, then to Santa Monica College before transferring to Memphis University. In 1992, Bruce’s first year with Memphis, he had 39 receptions for ... -
The men’s basketball team reaches the NCAA championship game
In 2008: The men’s basketball team reaches the NCAA championship game for the second time, losing to Kansas in overtime. -
The football team wins its second conference championship in AAC
In 2014: The football team wins its second conference championship in AAC. -
The football team wins its third conference championship in AAC
In 2019: The football team wins its third conference championship in AAC and plays in the Cotton Bowl, its first New Year’s Six bowl 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.
Memphis Tigers History
The Memphis Tigers have built a proud and influential legacy in college athletics. Established in 1912 as an independent program, the Tigers steadily rose to prominence before joining the American Athletic Conference in 2013. The program has remained a staple of NCAA competition ever since, with passionate fans supporting every milestone. Rivalries with teams like the Temple Owls have added extra excitement to Memphis Tigers football seasons, while Memphis Tigers basketball continues to deliver unforgettable performances.
The Tigers’ rise began decades ago with landmark victories and strong leadership. In 1959, Memphis captured a major national title by defeating Arkansas State 28–20 under head coach Billy J. Murphy at Madison Square Garden. This win was a pivotal moment for Memphis athletics, showcasing the program’s growing influence and helping open doors for African American athletes at the national level.
The Memphis Tigers football program has developed into one of the most competitive teams in the AAC. Over the years, legendary players such as DeAngelo Williams and Patrick Willis guided the Tigers to bowl victories, including the 2005 Liberty Bowl win over BYU and the 2007 Liberty Bowl triumph against South Carolina. These successes built a foundation for modern-day dominance, including multiple AAC West Division titles and a berth in the 2019 Cotton Bowl Classic.
On the hardwood, Memphis Tigers basketball has cemented the school’s reputation as a national contender. The program made a historic run to the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight in 1985 and has reached the Final Four multiple times, most notably in 1973 and 2008. The Tigers have produced standout players such as Penny Hardaway and Derrick Rose, who left a lasting impact on both college and professional basketball.
Tigers Achievements
In recent years, the Tigers have continued to thrive under talented coaching staffs and top-tier recruits. Memphis Tigers football has earned national rankings and appeared in high-profile bowl games, while Memphis Tigers basketball has returned to consistent NCAA Tournament contention under Coach Penny Hardaway. This dual success has strengthened the university’s reputation as a powerhouse in the American Athletic Conference.
The dedication of Tiger Nation remains unmatched, fueling one of the most passionate fanbases in college sports. Whether it’s roaring at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium or packing FedExForum for basketball showdowns, fans proudly support the Memphis Tigers, celebrating a tradition built on excellence, resilience, and a commitment to success across all sports programs.
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