In a year destined to be etched in the annals of college sports history, Auburn University has pulled off what no other school has ever accomplished. The Tigers became the only institution in NCAA history to win a national championship, reach the Women’s College World Series, advance to the men’s basketball Final Four, compete in a major bowl game, and make it to the NCAA baseball regionals — all in a single academic year. And now, Auburn has been officially crowned the best athletic program in the nation for 2025.
This historic achievement didn’t come by chance. It was the product of exceptional coaching, relentless athletes, and a unified culture that pushed every program within Auburn Athletics to its competitive peak.
The centerpiece of Auburn’s record-breaking year was the football team’s stunning national championship victory. Behind an explosive offense and a top-5 defense, the Tigers surged past powerhouse after powerhouse, culminating in a decisive win that set Jordan-Hare Stadium and the entire Auburn community ablaze with pride.
Just months after the gridiron glory, Auburn’s women’s softball squad stormed into the WCWS, showcasing not only grit and power at the plate but also dazzling defensive finesse. Their journey was one of resilience, battling past ranked opponents in dramatic fashion and cementing their place among the sport’s elite.
Meanwhile, on the hardwood, the men’s basketball team electrified fans across the country with a breathtaking run to the Final Four. With fast-paced transition play, a lockdown perimeter defense, and the leadership of future NBA talent, the Tigers became one of the tournament’s most feared teams. Their Final Four appearance drew national praise and elevated Auburn’s brand even further.
And let’s not forget the baseball team, which clawed its way into the highly competitive NCAA regionals. With a combination of power hitters and flame-throwing relievers, Auburn baseball held its own against some of the toughest competition in the country. While they fell just short of the Super Regionals, their grit was evident every inning.
Finally, Auburn’s bowl game appearance, which saw the Tigers take on and defeat a Top-10 opponent in a New Year’s Six showdown, underscored just how consistently elite the program had become across every sport.
The honor of being named the best athletic department in the country caps off a year where Auburn didn’t just compete—they dominated. For Athletic Director John Cohen, this moment signifies more than just wins and titles. It’s about culture, investment, and commitment to excellence across the board.
“This isn’t a fluke,” Cohen said in a press statement. “This is the new Auburn standard. And we’re just getting started.”
From the plains of Alabama, the roar of Tiger pride has never been louder. In 2025, Auburn wasn’t just good. Auburn was legendary.