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Ask the Memphian: Why is the U of M’s mascot a tiger?

By , Special to The Daily Memphian Updated: November 26, 2025 10:03 AM CT | Published: November 17, 2025 4:00 AM CT

Tigers and what is now the University of Memphis go back to around 1914, and the partnership eventually led to the school having a live feline on the sidelines during football games. 

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University of Memphis Subscriber Only TOM III Tigers mascot Ask the Memphian

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John Klyce

John Klyce is a freelance writer for The Daily Memphian.


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