East Tennessee State

East Tennessee State Buccaneers represent the heart and soul of Appalachia at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City. Competing in the Southern Conference with navy blue and gold pride, the Buccaneers have cultivated a unique athletics program characterized by Appalachian grit and competitive determination. Their storied legacy includes 24 men's golf conference championships across several leagues, a testament to their sustained dominance in the sport. The basketball program boasts 10 NCAA tournament appearances, highlighted by a memorable Sweet Sixteen run in 1968 and an all-time record surpassing 1,250 wins. Baseball success peaked with the 2013 Atlantic Sun championship, breaking a 32-year NCAA tournament drought. The legendary 1969 undefeated football team showcased ETSU’s tenacity by defeating Terry Bradshaw’s Louisiana Tech in the Grantland Rice Bowl. William Greene Stadium and Freedom Hall Civic Center energize Buccaneer fans led by mascot Bucky, as they rally behind Southern Conference excellence spanning 17 sports. From their roots as a normal school to a Division I competitive force, ETSU thrives on Appalachian values and mountain determination, continually proving Buccaneer spirit conquers all. Their navy blue and gold pirates sail high in Tennessee, building champions steeped in proud tradition and fierce resilience.