The Princeton Tigers have a long-standing reputation for excellence in collegiate athletics. Competing in the Ivy League, the football Princeton Tigers and Princeton Tigers baseball teams have achieved historic success through talent, teamwork, and tradition. With decades of championships and memorable moments, Princeton continues to set the standard for dedication and sportsmanship in NCAA sports.
College Sports Established
1747
Location
Princeton, New Jersey
College Name
Princeton University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1954 - Present / Ivy League
Nickname
Tigers - The Princeton Tigers have long been an iconic symbol of collegiate sports excellence. But did you know that the origin of their nickname dates back to the late 1800s? It's a story steeped in tradition and full of surprises!
Princeton Tigers Origin
In 1867, when Princeton University first adopted its orange and black colors, they chose not any old animal as their mascot but a Bengal tiger. This was due to William Roper’s poem “Princeton in Triumph,” which depicted a Bengal Tiger leading students from Nassau Hall into battle against Harvard Crimson (which were then called Red Coats). The poem ended with: “Roar, Tiger roar; let your voice be heard!” From this moment on, the tigers became part of Princeton lore.
Fast forward over 100 years later - In 1983, when NCAA Division I-AA Football Championship began to play at Princeton Stadium under Head Coach Bob Casciola, who had just arrived from Yale University – he brought his beloved bulldog mascot named "Tiger." Though initially met with resistance by some alumni who felt it wasn't true to school spirit or tradition, Coach Casciola quickly changed minds by introducing what is now known as one of college football's most famous mascots - Teddy Roosevelt riding atop his trusty steed 'Tiger.' For generations, this image has become synonymous with the team name and school pride.
While other universities may change their nicknames every few decades depending on current trends or fads, it appears that 'The Tigers' are here to stay until someone comes up with something better! So next time you cheer for your favorite team, don't forget how far back these origins go, showing us how traditions can last through many eras if we care for them properly. Go Tigers!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1893
- 1910
- 1996
- 2018
- 2019
-
Princeton wins its first football national championship
In 1893, Princeton’s football team had an undefeated season, winning all 11 of its games. Led by head coach Charley Caldwell and team captain Edgar Allan Poe (a distant relative of the famous poet), the Tigers outscored their opponents 270-14. This dominant performance earned them recognition as national champions by several selectors of the time, including Parke H. Davis, who ... -
Hobey Baker Era – Hobey Baker Memorial Award
Hobey Baker is indeed considered one of the greatest college athletes of all time. He played football and hockey at Princeton from 1910-1914 and was a standout in both sports. On the football field, Baker was a running back and a kicker, known for his speed and agility. On the ice, he was a skilled forward and an excellent stick-handler. ... -
Princeton Tigers men’s basketball team made it to the first round of the NCAA tournament
In 1996, the Princeton Tigers men’s basketball team made it to the first round of the NCAA tournament as a 13th seed and were matched up against the 4th-seeded UCLA Bruins, who were the defending national champions. Many people expected UCLA to win easily, but Princeton had other plans. The Tigers played a deliberate style of offense that frustrated the ... -
Princeton’s women’s soccer team reaches the NCAA
In 2018: Princeton’s women’s soccer team reaches the NCAA championship game but falls to Florida State. -
Princeton’s women’s basketball team wins its 26th Ivy League championship
In 2019: Princeton’s women’s basketball team wins its 26th Ivy League championship, the most in conference history.
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.
Princeton Tigers History
The Princeton Tigers hold one of the most prestigious legacies in NCAA history. Founded in 1746, Princeton University has built an unmatched tradition of athletic success. Competing in the Ivy League, the football Princeton Tigers and Princeton Tigers baseball programs stand out among the school’s most accomplished teams, with more than 30 national championships and over 100 Ivy League titles across all sports. The Tigers’ historic rivalry with the Pennsylvania Quakers remains one of the most celebrated in college athletics.
Throughout the years, the Princeton Tigers have produced legendary athletes who defined college sports history. Names like Bill Bradley in basketball, Dick Kazmaier in football Princeton Tigers, and Bob Scott in lacrosse have become synonymous with excellence. Many Princeton graduates have also gone on to compete in the Olympics, the NFL, NBA, and MLB, representing both their university and the United States at the highest levels.
Tigers Achievements
Beyond individual achievements, Princeton’s teams have achieved remarkable milestones. The men’s basketball program won back-to-back National Collegiate Basketball Championships in 1965 and 1966. The football Princeton Tigers dominated the Ivy League with six consecutive titles from 1964 to 1969, while the lacrosse team captured four national championships between 1992 and 1996.
The Princeton Tigers baseball team has also played a major role in the school’s athletic success, producing multiple MLB draft picks and winning numerous Ivy League titles. Other programs, including hockey, rowing, and track & field, have brought national recognition to Princeton through consistent performances and championship appearances.
Today, the Princeton Tigers continue to compete at an elite level, balancing athletic excellence with academic distinction. From Princeton Tigers baseball to football Princeton Tigers, the orange and black represent more than just school pride — they embody a tradition of integrity, perseverance, and championship spirit that defines Princeton University’s athletic legacy.
"Gear Up for the Best Seats in the House!"
Whether you're at the tailgate or cheering from the couch, show your true colors with authentic jerseys, sideline polos, and team-inspired street styles. Premium collegiate apparel for the ultimate fan.
Find Your Team – Official NCAA Shop
