The New Orleans Privateers have built a proud legacy in college athletics, excelling in both New Orleans Privateers basketball and New Orleans Privateers baseball. Representing the University of New Orleans, the Privateers are known for their competitive spirit, talented athletes, and rich sports traditions that continue to inspire fans across the NCAA landscape.
College Sports Established
1958
Location
New Orleans, Louisiana
College Name
University of New Orleans
Collegiate History
1976 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2013 - Present / Southland Conference
1980 - 1991. 2010-2013 / Independent
1976 - 1980, 1991 - 2010 / Sun Belt Conference
Nickname
Privateers - As a sports fan, you may be familiar with the New Orleans Privateers and their NCAA affiliation. But do you know where the name “Privateer” comes from? The answer is rooted in history – and it’s an interesting one!
New Orleans Privateers Origin
The term “privateer” has its origins in piracy. During the war, governments would issue privateering commissions to individuals or groups who could then act as agents of those governments on behalf of their country's interests at sea. This allowed them to attack enemy shipping vessels for profit while still being considered legitimate combatants by international law, even though they weren't officially part of any navy force.
In 1845, a group known as the Louisiana Association was formed to promote trade between New Orleans and other ports around South America by commissioning privateers that Congress authorized during wartime operations against Mexico (the Mexican-American War). These ships were called "Louisiana Privateers" due to their association with Louisiana commerce - thus giving rise to what we now know today as "New Orleans Privateers."
In addition, there is also some speculation that these ships may have been named after Jean Lafitte – an infamous pirate who operated out of Barataria Bay near present-day Grand Isle just southwest of downtown New Orleans back in the early 1800s before becoming an American hero during Battle Of New Orleans when he helped General Andrew Jackson defend the city against British forces during War Of 1812. Whatever origin story might be true, one thing remains certain: The name 'Privateer' will forever remain associated with adventure, excitement, danger & patriotism all rolled into one!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1987
- 1995
- 2004
- 2015
- 2017
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Privateers men’s basketball team won the Sun Belt Conference tournament
The men’s basketball team won the Sun Belt Conference tournament in 1987 and 1996, and qualified for the NCAA tournament six times. -
women’s basketball team won the Sun Belt Conference tournament
The women’s basketball team won the Sun Belt Conference tournament in 1995 and reached the NCAA tournament twice -
Then men’s soccer team won the Sun Belt Conference tournament
The men’s soccer team won the Sun Belt Conference tournament in 2004 and reached the NCAA tournament for the first time -
Wally Whitehurst – Greater New Orleans Sports Hall of Fame
Wally Whitehurst in New Orleans Privateers. He was a right-handed pitcher who played for UNO from 1983 to 1985. He was a key member of the 1984 team that reached the College World Series, the first and only Louisiana school to do so. He won 15 games that season and was named the MVP of the AAABA national championship team2. ... -
men’s basketball team won the Southland Conference
In 2017, the men’s basketball team won the Southland Conference regular season and tournament titles, and returned to the NCAA tournament for the first time since 1996
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.
New Orleans Privateers History
The New Orleans Privateers have built a rich legacy in NCAA athletics, standing out for their commitment, competition, and tradition. Founded in 1934, the Privateers represent the University of New Orleans and have been key members of the Southland Conference. Known for their spirited rivalry with the Incarnate Word Cardinals, the Privateers continue to leave a lasting mark in multiple sports, including New Orleans Privateers basketball and New Orleans Privateers baseball.
In their early years, the New Orleans Privateers established themselves as a respected athletic program, fielding competitive teams in several sports. Over the decades, the Privateers have showcased excellence, discipline, and resilience across football, basketball, baseball, and more. Their commitment to student-athlete development and academic success has helped shape generations of exceptional players and coaches.
While the program no longer fields a football team, the New Orleans Privateers football legacy remains an important part of the school’s athletic identity. The team once earned recognition for strong performances, claiming several conference championships and competing in historic bowl games. Former stars from the football program, including Joe Horn Jr. and Mark Fields Sr., went on to represent the university at the professional level, keeping the Privateer pride alive.
Privateers Achievements
In New Orleans Privateers basketball, the program has earned national respect through consistent performance and championship runs. The Privateers have claimed multiple conference titles and made numerous appearances in the NCAA and NIT tournaments. Legendary players like Bobby Phills brought national attention to the program, helping to strengthen its reputation as one of Louisiana’s most competitive college basketball teams.
Beyond basketball, New Orleans Privateers baseball has also developed into a cornerstone of the university’s athletic success. The team has produced professional players and memorable postseason moments that highlight the school’s commitment to athletic excellence. Both programs reflect the hard work and determination that define the Privateer spirit.
Today, the New Orleans Privateers continue to compete at the NCAA Division I level, inspiring future athletes and fans alike. Whether through the dynamic play of New Orleans Privateers basketball or the competitive edge of New Orleans Privateers baseball, the university remains a proud force in college athletics — a legacy built on dedication, teamwork, and passion for the game.
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