Every March, madness takes over the courts, but not just among players and coaches. On the edges of the parquet, an equally fierce battle unfolds between wild felines, mythical birds, energetic canines, and extravagant creatures. Each of them has become the soul of their teams. The mascots of March Madness 2025—ranging from Zippy, Akron’s kangaroo, to the classic Wildcats and Bulldogs—are here, and only one will reign over the tournament.
These characters not only fire up the crowd but also serve as symbols of identity and pride. Which of these beasts—real or imaginary—will claim the crown this year? While the event isn’t over yet, one has already emerged as a fan favorite. What is the most popular March Madness 2025 mascot? Based on recent mascot rankings for the 2025 men’s tournament, the crown for animal mascots goes to Akron’s Zippy—a spirited kangaroo that carried over her top status from last year and even landed her own NIL deal.
While the overall #1 spot in some rankings went to Xavier’s non‑animal duo (D’Artagnan and the Blue Blob), if you’re talking pure animal power, Zippy is the clear champion, according to Sports Illustrated.
March Madness 2025 mascots can be categorized as follows:
- Animal mascots: Dominating the tournament are teams represented by animals—Bulldogs, Tigers, Wildcats, Gators and more—that evoke power, tenacity, and a relentless fighting spirit.
- Mythical creatures: Institutions like Duke with their Blue Devil and UC San Diego with King Triton bring a touch of fantasy and mystery to the competition.
- Human figures: A few schools opt for mascots that reflect human characteristics or historical figures, linking their identity to tradition and heritage.
Among remarkable anecdotes, some mascots have become legends in their own right. Take Griff II of Drake, for example—this lovable bulldog has charmed fans with his playful antics despite being sidelined during early rounds due to NCAA restrictions on live mascots. Meanwhile, mythical figures like King Triton from UC San Diego, with his regal crown and trident, add an extra layer of spectacle to the tournament. And who could forget Thunder the Antelope of Grand Canyon, whose dynamic presence and acrobatic stunts have generated buzz on social media and in the press?
Mascots have also had notable appearances in past tournaments, stealing scenes during timeout performances, earning their own social media followings, and even being honored for their contributions to the game-day experience. In March Madness 2025, as teams battle for glory on the hardwood, these mascots continue to remind us that the spirit of competition is about more than just winning—it’s about celebrating identity, tradition and the electrifying energy of college sports.
Top 25 Most Beloved March Madness 2025 Mascots
- Big Jay (Kansas)
- Blue Devil (Duke)
- Big Al (Alabama)
- Rameses (North Carolina)
- Cam the Ram (Colorado State)
Closing our ranking is Big Jay, the iconic jayhawk mascot of Kansas, whose spirited energy and youthful exuberance make him a standout figure. Big Jay’s dynamic performances and his deep connection with the Jayhawks’ legacy embody the rich tradition and competitive spirit of Kansas. The mascot rallies the crowd and unifies fans across generations, underscoring his importance as a symbol of both past glories and future aspirations.
The Blue Devil of Duke is also mentioned for its blend of mystery, audacity, and tradition, commanding attention on game days with electrifying performances. Big Al, the majestic elephant mascot of Alabama, contributes power and grandeur, while North Carolina's Rameses, the charismatic ram stands out with energetic routines lifting the crowd's spirit.
Continuing with Cam the Ram from Colorado State, Testudo from Maryland, who symbolizes perseverance, and Bevo and Hook ‘Em of Texas, who interweave sporting traditions. Undoubtedly, Auburn’s Aubie the Tiger, and Wisconsin's Bucky Badger, excite fans with their unique styles.
With Tupper from Bryant, Jonathan, the husky mascot of UConn, and Handsome Dan from Yale making the list, we see the diverse representation of mascots that connect students to their schools and the excitement of competition.
As we cheer for these mascots, let us not forget the joy they bring to the game and the enthusiasm they foster across campuses, creating unforgettable moments each March Madness.
