Providence, R.I. – Bulldog Nation was alive and buzzing on the night of March 21, 2025, as Bryant University’s men’s basketball team made history by competing in the first round of the NCAA Tournament against the formidable Michigan State. With a strong spirit of camaraderie, fans turned out in droves for watch parties, celebrating their beloved underdogs even from afar, particularly in cities like Cleveland, where the game was held.
One of the main events unfolded at GPub on Orange Street in Providence, where the Bryant Alumni Association organized a spirited watch party. Graduates, students, and supporters decked out in the university’s black and gold colors filled the venue, ready to cheer on their team. “Hey, I’m excited, man. It’s been a long time since we’ve been to the NCAA,” exclaimed Bryant junior Jordi Songe. “Hopefully we can make an impact tonight and go Bulldogs!”
Support was palpable among alumni too; Jacob Marrocco from the Bryant Alumni Association emphasized the Bulldogs’ indomitable spirit. “They’ve got a lot of grit — and that underdog mentality goes a long way,” Marrocco noted. “Or the under-bulldog mentality, I should say.”
The enthusiasm extended beyond Providence. In Cleveland, where the big game kicked off at 10 p.m., fans were equally pumped. “We’ve got celebrations in Cleveland going on, so they know — they’ve got so much support,” added Marrocco.
The relationship between Bryant University and its ardent supporters is long-standing. For instance, Parente’s Restaurant & Bar in nearby Smithfield has showcased school pride for over 42 years with its walls adorned with Bryant memorabilia. Owner Dennis Parente remarked, “They’ve got a tough opponent tonight — Michigan State’s a top 10 team — so it’s going to be a tough order. But they’re a good team.”
Students on campus were also abuzz as they prepared for a thrilling underdog battle. “Everyone around campus has been following the team all year, so I think we are all mutually super excited,” stated sophomore Nic Palumbo. “It’s a little bit of a late game but on a Friday night, I think everyone is going to be supportive and watching.”
As significant as this match is for the players, it also holds historical importance, marking Bryant’s second appearance in the NCAA tournament. Founded in 1863, Bryant University, located in Smithfield, Rhode Island, had only made it to the big dance once before, making it to the national tournament in 2022. Bryant’s appearance this year is driven by its successful season, where they compiled a record of 23-11 and clinched the America East Conference title with an impressive 14-2 mark during the conference play.
Standing as a representative team for smaller schools in the South region of the tournament, the Bulldogs entered this pivotal stage as the No. 15 seed. Their opponent, Michigan State University, entered the tournament with a significant advantage as a No. 2 seed and was favored to win by 17.5 points.
Matters were made even more exciting for fans as they anticipated a game against a powerhouse like Michigan State, well-known for its historic basketball program. “It’s good to have some representation,” observed freshman Sarina Sanders, emphasizing the pride associated with the small school taking on a giant. “Especially from a small school playing a Big Ten school. It’s cool to see they are putting us on the map.”
The Bulldogs, despite coming off a rocky early-season slate with losses to teams like St. John’s and Grand Canyon, managed to regroup and finish strong, thus earning their chance on the biggest stage in college basketball. Bryant’s leading scorer, Rafael Pinzon, who averaged 18.5 points per game this season, has been pivotal for the team’s success throughout the tournament run.
This intense matchup of athletic prowess and determination reminds fans and players alike of the unpredictable nature of March Madness. “Hey, it’s March,” Songe quipped. “Anything can happen.”
With the game broadcast live on TBS and the excitement of the underdog spirit driving the fans, all eyes are on the Bulldogs as they embark on another chapter in their storied history. The anticipation and energy reverberate throughout the campus and beyond, as Bryant has once again captured the hearts of basketball fans eager to see how the night will unfold.
The emergence of Bryant University as a competitive D1 program is not just a narrative about the present but also a glimpse into a promising future. Bryant fans remain hopeful that history will be made, not just in how they perform during this tournament but in how they inspire others who dream of greatness on the hardwood.
As the clock ticks closer to game time, one cannot help but wonder what magic March Madness has in store for the talented Bulldogs. Will they defy expectations, bringing home an inspiring upset against the formidable Spartans? Only time will tell in the unpredictable landscape of college basketball.
