Bryant

The Bryant Bulldogs represent the heart and determination of Rhode Island at Bryant University in Smithfield. Since fielding their first teams in basketball and rowing in 1896, the Bulldogs have built a proud legacy spanning over 125 years. Competing in NCAA Division I as members of the America East Conference, Bryant’s athletic tradition stems from dominant years in the Northeast-10 Conference, where they captured 93 conference titles and won the prestigious President’s Cup eight times—including in their last Division II season in 2008, when 19 of 22 teams qualified for NCAA playoffs. Transitioning successfully to Division I, Bryant has continued excelling with multiple Northeast Conference championships across baseball, men’s lacrosse, and men’s tennis. The 1966-67 men’s basketball team exhibited historic brilliance with a perfect 22-0 regular season. The baseball program's 2004 NCAA Division II Northeast Regional Championship at Conaty Park highlights their postseason success. With 25 varsity sports, Bryant competes from state-of-the-art facilities like Beirne Stadium and the Chace Athletic Center. Led by their living mascot Tupper II and costumed counterpart, the Bulldogs embody unwavering tenacity and competitive spirit—building champions who carry forward a proud tradition of excellence in black and gold.