The bison is back! Indiana University resurrects mascot from decades past

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — More than half a century later, the bison is returning home to Indiana University.

On Tuesday, the Indiana Hoosiers posted a video signaling the long-awaited return of the mascot, who hasn’t been seen on the sidelines of IU sports events since the 1960s.

In recent years, IU students have been pushing for the return of the bison mascot, who has been largely forgotten by most. But with IU’s football team drawing national attention last season, focus shifted back to the sideline and the lack of a true mascot to rally the fans.

“It would be cool to see a regular mascot on the sidelines,” IU senior Ryan Phelan previously told FOX59.

The IU Student Government went as far as introducing the Bring Back the Bison Act of 2024 to jump-start the return of the bison mascot. Not that the bison ever totally disappeared. Remnants can still be found around Bloomington, especially at Nick’s English Hut, where the mascot can be seen holding up a mug of beer.

“The bison has been part of Indiana’s heritage,” said Gregg Rago, owner of Nick’s English Hut. “Look at the state seal. I’ve always been a big bison guy. They’re big, they’re strong, they’re agile, they’re part of our lore here in Indiana.”

Now, the bison is trampling its way off the Indiana state seal, out of the past, and right back into the corner of the IU Hoosiers.

“Finally unleashed,” the Indiana Hoosiers said in the announcement post.

A sweeping shot reveals a glimpse of Hoosier the Bison, standing high above Memorial Stadium — surveying his domain.

“Hoosier the Bison, coming fall 2025.”

A legend at long last returns home.