THE National College Athletics Association has confirmed that live mascots remain banned from March Madness.
In an unpopular move, the animals remain banned from all of the tournament’s early rounds and are only allowed in the Final Four.
Fans of the Drake men’s basketball team started a petition after their beloved mascot Griff the Bulldog was left unable to attend games.
It read: “The NCAA only allows live mascots at the Final Four, barring them from earlier rounds of March Madness.
“This outdated rule prevents beloved mascots like Griff, Drake University’s live bulldog, from being in the arena to support his team.
“It’s time to change this rule and let live mascots be part of the tournament from the start!
“Griff isn’t just a mascot—he’s an essential part of Drake’s identity.
“The team is 9-0 when Griff is in attendance at Arch Madness, proving that his presence makes an impact.
“Fans love him, players feed off his energy, and TV cameras can’t get enough of him.
“For the third year in a row, Drake Men’s Basketball has earned a spot in March Madness, yet Griff has never been allowed to attend.
“This rule serves no real purpose and only takes away from the game-day experience.
“It’s time for the NCAA to recognize the role of live mascots and update its policies.”
However, the NCAA maintain that the rule is necessary because not all animals are equal and there’s no guarantee that every stadium could accommodate every type of mascot.
In a response to enquiries from TMZ, an NCAA spokesperson said: “Griff II the bulldog is undeniably adorable, and to the disappointment of dog lovers everywhere, including many NCAA staff, we unfortunately must apply the rules fairly for all teams.
“We couldn’t have a Texas longhorn like Bevo or a North American bison like Ralphie sitting courtside in the early rounds.
“So unfortunately we cannot permit any live mascots despite Griff II being far cuter.
“Should Drake make it all the way to the Final Four, we encourage Griff II to apply for an exception because the venue and game schedules can accommodate a bulldog.”
Griff’s appeal goes far beyond the world of sport.
The bulldog was seen at the Republican Presidential debate at Drake College in 2024.
And it was joked that unlike the candidates on display, Griff had a 100 per cent approval rating.
In their opening match, Drake managed to cope without their beloved mascot as they pulled off a stunning upset.
The Des Moines-based team were 67-57 winners against sixth seeds Missouri Tigers.
They will now take on third seeds Texas Tech on Saturday.
The Red Raiders beat the UNC Wilmington Seahawks 82-72 in their first match.
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