Chicago State

The Chicago State Cougars embody unbreakable resilience, a spirit of defiant pride, and the authentic heartbeat of their home on the South Side of Chicago. The story of Chicago State athletics is a powerful testament to perseverance, having navigated the immense challenges of NCAA Division I independence to secure a new beginning and a promising future in the Northeast Conference. The program's fighting spirit was put on national display in a historic 2023 upset victory over the nationally-ranked Northwestern Wildcats, a monumental win that symbolized the dawn of a new, competitive era. As a Predominantly Black Institution, the university provides vital opportunities for student-athletes, fostering a supportive community dedicated to achieving success against the odds, both in competition and in life. Led by a renewed vision and a "We Are Chicago State" mantra, the Cougars are focused on building a championship culture from the ground up in their new conference home. The Chicago State Cougars represent something more profound than a win-loss record; they are a symbol of a community that refuses to quit, fighting every day to build a legacy of which their city can be proud.