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Furman Today
By the People, for the People
Furman University: A Small South Carolina Gem with Big March Madness Potential
Exploring the history, location, and basketball program of the Paladins, a perennial NCAA Tournament contender.
Mar. 20, 2026 at 9:10am
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Furman University, the oldest private university in South Carolina, has made a name for itself in recent NCAA Tournaments with its 2023 upset of Virginia as a 13-seed. Located in Greenville, the small liberal arts school has a rich history and a basketball program that continues to punch above its weight, earning another tournament berth in 2026 as a 15-seed against powerhouse UConn.
Why it matters
Furman's success on the basketball court has shone a light on the small South Carolina school, highlighting its academic reputation, unique history, and ability to compete with the big names in college basketball. As a perennial underdog, Furman's tournament runs capture the spirit of March Madness and inspire fans of small-school athletics.
The details
Furman University was founded in 1826, making it the oldest private university in South Carolina. The school is centered around liberal arts and sciences, with an undergraduate population of just over 2,300 as of 2024. Athletically, the Paladins compete in the Southern Conference, which they have been a part of since 1936. Furman has made eight NCAA Tournament appearances, most recently in 2023 when they shocked 4-seed Virginia, 68-67, as a 13-seed before falling in the second round. The Paladins earned another tournament bid in 2026 as a 15-seed, drawing a matchup with 2-seed UConn.
- Furman University was founded in 1826.
- Furman joined the Southern Conference in 1936.
- Furman made its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1971.
- Furman upset 4-seed Virginia, 68-67, as a 13-seed in the 2023 NCAA Tournament.
- Furman earned a 15-seed in the 2026 NCAA Tournament, drawing a matchup with 2-seed UConn.
The players
Richard Furman
One of the most important Baptist clergymen during the early decades of America's history, and a large advocate for educational institutions throughout the country, including the university that bears his name.
Furman University
The oldest private university in South Carolina, founded in 1826 and centered around liberal arts and sciences, with an undergraduate population of just over 2,300 as of 2024.
What’s next
Furman will look to build on its recent NCAA Tournament success as it prepares to face 2-seed UConn in the 2026 tournament. The Paladins will aim to once again pull off an upset and advance deeper into the Big Dance.
The takeaway
Furman University, a small liberal arts school in South Carolina, has proven that it can compete with the powerhouses of college basketball. The Paladins' recent NCAA Tournament appearances, including their stunning 2023 upset of Virginia, have captured the spirit of March Madness and inspired fans of small-school athletics.
