The Tennessee State Tigers have a remarkable history in NCAA athletics, celebrated for their dominance in Tennessee State Tigers football and Tennessee State Tigers basketball. Representing Tennessee State University in Nashville, the Tigers have produced legendary athletes and unforgettable championship moments that define their proud tradition in college sports and inspire fans across generations.
College Sports Established
1912
Location
Cookeville, Tennessee
College Name
Tennessee State University
Collegiate History
1986 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
1986 - Present / Ohio Valley Conference
Nickname
Tigers - The Tennessee State Tigers have been a beloved college football team for decades, and their nickname has become synonymous with success. But where did the name come from? Let's take a look at the origins of this iconic NCAA moniker!
Tennessee State Tigers Origin
It all began in 1909 when John McLemore became president of what was then known as the Tennessee A&I Normal School. He wanted to give his students an identity that would make them stand out among other schools, so he created "Tigers" as their mascot and nickname. This idea quickly caught on among students and alumni, who have embraced it wholeheartedly ever since.
The name also had special significance to McLemore himself; he was inspired by General Robert E Lee’s famous quote, “It is well that war is so terrible – lest we should grow too fond of it,” which included references to tigers in its description: “as fierce as tigers." Thus, this new mascot provided an identity for his school and embodied qualities such as strength and courage- two traits every student could strive towards achieving!
Today, over 100 years after being adopted by President McLemore, the Tennessee State Tigers remain one of the most recognizable college football teams in history - thanks mainly to their unique origin story. Whether you're cheering them on or just learning about their past, there's no denying that fans across America will never forget these hardworking athletes fondly!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1940
- 1965
- 1992
- 2001
-
Legendary basketball coach John McLendon
In 1940 Legendary basketball coach John McLendon joins the TSU coaching staff, where he develops the fast-break offense and other innovative tactics that revolutionize the game. -
Football National Championship
In 1965 The TSU football team wins its first national championship under coach Merritt, finishing the season with an 11-0 record. -
Joining Ohio Valley Conference
In 1992 TSU becomes a member of the Ohio Valley Conference. -
Teresa Phillips
Teresa Phillips: Women’s basketball coach who led Tennessee State University to five conference championships and five NCAA tournament appearances.
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.
Tennessee State Tigers History
The Tennessee State Tigers have built a legacy of excellence that spans more than a century. Known for their strong tradition in Tennessee State Tigers football and Tennessee State Tigers basketball, the program has been a powerhouse in NCAA Division I athletics. From their early independent roots to their current home in the Ohio Valley Conference, the Tigers have remained one of the most respected programs in college sports.
The Tennessee State Tigers football program began its rise to prominence in the 1940s, joining the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAA) during World War II. Under head coach Jules Voorhees Jr., the Tigers won four straight SIAA football championships from 1945 to 1948. Around the same time, Tennessee State Tigers basketball gained national attention, capturing three consecutive NAIB titles between 1947 and 1949, marking an era of dominance for the university.
In 1959, Tennessee State advanced to Division I-AA (now FCS), continuing its success with five conference titles before joining the Ohio Valley Conference in 1986. Since then, the Tennessee State Tigers have added several more championships, building on a foundation of competitiveness and tradition that continues to this day.
Tigers Achievements
The Tennessee State Tigers football team has produced numerous professional athletes, including NFL Hall of Famer Richard Dent, who starred from 1979 to 1982. Meanwhile, Tennessee State Tigers basketball has developed standout players like NBA star Carl “Big Daddy” Dandridge and WNBA legend Tamika Catchings, both of whom brought national recognition to the school through their success.
In recent years, the Tigers have continued to shine across multiple sports, earning OVC titles and postseason appearances that reinforce their reputation for excellence. Their commitment to athletic achievement is matched by a strong academic record and community engagement, making Tennessee State a true model of collegiate success.
The Tennessee State Tigers continue to inspire pride in their fans and alumni, with Tennessee State Tigers football and Tennessee State Tigers basketball leading the charge. Their long-standing tradition of excellence ensures that the Tigers remain a powerful force in NCAA athletics, honoring their past while building a bright future for generations to come.
