The Rhode Island Rams represent the University of Rhode Island in NCAA Division I sports, carrying a rich tradition in Rhode Island Rams football and Rhode Island Rams baseball. With decades of success across multiple programs, the Rams have built a loyal fan base and a reputation for dedication, competitive spirit, and community pride throughout the state.
College Sports Established
1892
Location
Kingston, Rhode Island
College Name
University of Rhode Island
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1924 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1980 - Present / Atlantic 10 Conference
1975 - 1980 / Independent
1948 - 1975 / Yankee Conference
1924 - 1948 / New England Conference
Nickname
Rams - The Rhode Island Rams are one of the most recognizable teams in college sports, and their nickname has been part of their identity for decades. But where did the name come from? Let's look at how this iconic moniker came to be associated with the Rhode Island Rams.
Rhode Island Rams Origin
The first use of “Rams” as a mascot dates back to 1932 when it was adopted by then-athletic director Robert E.L Smith Jr., who chose it because he felt it symbolized strength and power—two qualities that he wanted his team to embody on the field. The original logo featured an angry ram with its horns pointed forward, ready for battle! This image quickly became synonymous with University athletics, making its way onto everything from jerseys to banners.
Fast forward several decades later, and you can still find references to “Rams” throughout campus life at URI (University Of Rhode Island). From student organizations like RAMS Club (Rhode Islanders Advocating Meaningful Service)to athletic events such as Ramapalooza–the name is everywhere! It even appeared in pop culture recently when Seth Meyers referred jokingly to them during his opening monologue on Saturday Night Live: "I'm sure everyone here knows about our amazing local basketball team...the mighty RhoDE ISLAND rAms!"
Whether you're cheering on your favorite players or showing school pride around town–it's clear why so many people have embraced this beloved nickname over time: there is something special about being part of The Pride Of Rhody!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1937
- 1980
- 1998
- 1999
- 2005
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Rhode Island Rams men’s basketball team won the New England Conference championship
In the 1936-37 season, the Rhode Island Rams men’s basketball team won the New England Conference championship with a record of 14-3. It was the program’s first conference championship. The team was led by head coach Frank Keaney, who is considered one of the most influential figures in college basketball history. Keaney pioneered the concept of a fast-paced, high-scoring style ... -
The baseball team wins the Yankee Conference championship
In 1980, the Rhode Island Rams baseball team won the Yankee Conference championship, earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament. It was the program’s first conference title and first NCAA Tournament appearance. They finished the season with a record of 34-17. -
Women’s basketball team wins the Atlantic 10 Conference championship
women’s basketball team at the University of Rhode Island (URI) won their first Atlantic 10 Conference championship in the 1997-1998 season. They also made their first NCAA Tournament appearance that same year, losing in the first round to the University of Virginia. -
Lamar Odom
Lamar Odom played for the Rhode Island Rams men’s basketball team during the 1998-1999 season. He was a standout player and helped lead the team to the Atlantic 10 Conference championship and a berth in the NCAA Tournament. Odom was named the conference Rookie of the Year and was also a Second-Team All-Conference selection. -
Men’s basketball team makes it to the NCAA
2005: The men’s basketball team makes it to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1999 after winning the Atlantic 10 Conference championship. The team loses in the first round to the University of Utah.
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Rhode Island Rams History
The Rhode Island Rams are one of the most respected college programs in the NCAA, known especially for their long rivalry with the Massachusetts Minutemen. Starting as a small regional basketball team, the Rams have grown into a multi-sport powerhouse that also proudly represents the state through Rhode Island Rams football and Rhode Island Rams baseball programs.
The men’s basketball program began in 1936 at Rhode Island State College (now the University of Rhode Island) under legendary coach Frank Keaney. That same season, the team earned its first winning record, signaling the start of an enduring tradition of success. Under Keaney’s leadership, the Rhode Island Rams became a dominant force in New England collegiate athletics for over four decades.
Many great athletes have worn the Rams uniform. Ernie Calverley was later inducted into both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame. Jimmy Walker thrilled fans by helping capture consecutive Atlantic 10 Tournament championships. Marvin Barnes, a key part of the 1974 Final Four run, remains a beloved figure, and Kenny Green and Lamar Odom added their own chapters to the program’s proud history.
Beyond basketball, the Rhode Island Rams football team has built a solid reputation competing in the Colonial Athletic Association. Over the decades, they have produced all-conference players, NFL draftees, and several conference championships. Similarly, Rhode Island Rams baseball has achieved success in the Atlantic 10, winning multiple regular-season titles and earning NCAA Tournament appearances, cementing the Rams’ reputation as a true multi-sport contender.
Rams Achievements
The basketball program continued its prominence into the modern era, reaching the NCAA Tournament nine times since 2000, including an impressive Sweet Sixteen run in 2017. This success paralleled the growth of the Rhode Island Rams football program, which has developed a stronger recruiting base and modern facilities to compete consistently at a high level.
Today, the Rhode Island Rams baseball team also stands out for producing professional talent and delivering strong postseason performances. Dedicated coaches, supportive alumni, and passionate fans have created an environment where each sport thrives.
Looking ahead, the Rhode Island Rams are poised for even greater achievements. With rising stars like Fatts Russell in basketball, new leadership in Rhode Island Rams football, and competitive energy in Rhode Island Rams baseball, the university’s athletic tradition is stronger than ever. This commitment to excellence ensures that the Rams remain a force in college sports for years to come.
