College Sports Established
1867
Location
Baltimore, Maryland
College Name
Morgan State University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1970 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1970 - 1979, 1984 - Present / Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference
Nickname
Bears - The origins of the Morgan State Bears nickname can be traced back to the early 1930s when the university was known as Morgan College. The school's football team sought a fierce and intimidating nickname to represent their strength and determination on the field. It was during this time that they adopted the nickname "Bears." This choice was inspired by the team's dominant playing style and ability to overpower their opponents, just like a bear in the wild.
As the years passed, the Morgan State Bears continued living up to their fierce nickname, dominating the football field and earning numerous victories. The nickname became even more fitting when the university transitioned from a college to a university in 1975, as it symbolized the growth and strength of the institution. Today, the Morgan State Bears continue to embody the spirit of their nickname, with their athletes displaying the same tenacity and ferocity as their predecessors. The nickname has become integral to the university's identity and is proudly worn by all its sports teams.
In addition to representing strength and determination, the Morgan State Bears nickname also holds a special significance for the university's history. It serves as a reminder of the school's roots and progress. The nickname is a source of pride for the entire Morgan State community, and it continues to inspire athletes, students, and alumni to strive for greatness. As a Bears fan, it is an honor to support a team with such a powerful and meaningful nickname, and it is a constant reminder of the university's rich history and bright future.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1974
- 2014
- 2022
-
National Champions
The Morgan State Bears men’s basketball team currently competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The program hosted the first interracial American basketball game played south of the Mason–Dixon line on February 12, 1952. The Bears have appeared in two NCAA Division I Tournaments in 2009 and 2010. The Bears have appeared in one National Invitation Tournament in 2008. The Bears ... -
Bears football: Triple MEAC Champ
The Morgan State Bears football team competes in American football on behalf of Morgan State University. The Bears compete in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision, currently as a member of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Morgan State began playing football in 1898. Morgan State claims seven Black college football national championships. They have won 23 conference championships. The ... -
Lady Bears Endeavor
The Morgan State Lady Bears basketball team currently competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The Lady Bears returned to Division I play and the MEAC in 1984. They have never won the MEAC Women’s Basketball Tournament or have made a NCAA Division I women’s basketball tournament appearance. The Lady Bears have made one appearance in the Women’s National Invitation Tournament ...
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.
History of the Bears
One of the most notable moments in Morgan State Bears sports history was 1974 when the football team became the first historically black college or university to win a national championship. Led by legendary coach Eddie Hurt, the Bears defeated Grambling State University in the Pelican Bowl to claim the title. This victory not only brought national recognition to the Bears but also showcased the talent and determination of the players and coaches on the team.
In addition to their success on the field, the Morgan State Bears have also significantly impacted off the field. The university has produced numerous NFL, NBA, and Olympic athletes and successful coaches and administrators. The Bears have also been at the forefront of promoting diversity and inclusion in sports, with their teams being known for their diverse rosters and strong sense of community. As a Bears fan, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the team's history and contributions to the world of sports and society as a whole.