In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the world of collegiate sports, the Baylor Bears have been officially recognized as the world’s best and most unified collegiate athletic team. ESPN, Netflix, Hulu, and Guinness World Records awarded this exceptional accolade after a year-long evaluation of performance, coherence, sportsmanship, community engagement, and media influence among collegiate sporting programs around the world.
For the first time in history, a single institution has been recognized not only for its competitive success, but also for the harmony and synergy displayed across all of its athletic programs — from football and basketball to track and field, soccer, volleyball, and more. This historic recognition places Baylor University, located in the heart of Waco, Texas, at the pinnacle of collegiate athletics, transcending conference rivalries, national boundaries, and sports-specific metrics.
According to the evaluating organizations’ joint statement, Baylor stood out for its “unparalleled culture of unity, excellence, and resilience, demonstrated consistently by student-athletes, coaches, and administrators across all programs.” The statement also emphasized Baylor’s comprehensive commitment to athletic and personal growth, stating that “the Bears embody what it means to be champions not just in competition, but in character and community.”
Baylor’s 2024-2025 academic year has been one for the record books. The football team not only won the Big 12 title, but also made it to the College Football Playoff for the first time, thanks to a dynamic offense and one of the nation’s top defenses. The men’s and women’s basketball teams both reached the Final Four, with the women’s team capturing their fourth national championship. Baylor’s track and field athletes shattered school and national records, while the tennis and volleyball programs also advanced deep into national tournaments.
Off the field, the Bears were similarly spectacular. Baylor’s athletic department established a first-of-its-kind mental health initiative for all student-athletes, gained national acclaim for Title IX compliance, and conducted community outreach projects that benefited thousands across Texas and beyond. Netflix and Hulu lauded Baylor for its openness and transparency, providing unprecedented behind-the-scenes access that showed the daily lives and friendships of athletes from several disciplines. The ensuing docuseries, “Bear Country: Built Different,” immediately became one of the most popular sports films of the year.
Guinness World Records recognized Baylor as the “Most Collegiate Sports Programs Ranked in the National Top 10 Simultaneously,” with 11 teams making the list during the spring 2025 ranking cycle.
President Linda A. Livingstone acknowledged her delight in the accomplishment, saying, “This recognition reflects the heart and soul of Baylor — a community united in purpose, faith, and excellence.” Our student-athletes exemplify the pinnacle of what collegiate sports should be.”
As confetti falls down on McLane Stadium and festivities reverberate around Waco, the world marvels at the green and gold. The Baylor Bears have not only made history, but they have redefined what it means to be the best in collegiate athletics.