Chattanooga, Tenn. (April 11, 2025) - The City of Chattanooga is rolling
out the blue and gold carpet for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
(UTC) Mocs men's basketball team following their historic win at the
National Invitation Tournament (NIT). On Wednesday, April 17, 2025, the
city will host a celebratory parade through downtown Chattanooga,
culminating in a high-energy community pep rally in Miller Park.
“This win is proof that our mighty little city can produce big-time
greatness,” said Mayor Tim Kelly. “The Mocs didn’t just bring home a
championship, they showed the country what Chattanooga is made of. It’s a
reminder that great things really do come in small packages, and that when
grit, talent, and heart come together, anything is possible.”
The Mocs secured their place in history on April 4, defeating a tough
opponent in a thrilling overtime finish, becoming the first Southern
Conference team to win the NIT. The city invites fans, alumni, students,
and community members to come downtown, wear their blue and gold, and join
in celebrating this extraordinary achievement.
The parade will kick off at 6:00 p.m., featuring the championship-winning
Mocs basketball team, coaching staff, as well as UTC’s marching band and
spirit squad. Free public parking is available behind the Bessie Smith
Cultural Center, and a detailed map outlining the parade route and parking
locations will be provided in advance.
Immediately following the parade, the citywide pep rally will begin at 6:15
p.m. in Miller Park, where fans will have the chance to cheer on the team
one more time and hear directly from the people who made this season
unforgettable.
The pep rally will feature:
- Live performances from the UTC band and spirit squad
- Welcome and remarks from UTC Interim Chancellor Dr. Robert Dooley
- Remarks and a joint proclamation from Councilman Cody Harvey and
Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp - Remarks from Head Coach Dan Earl
- Reflections from the players
- A celebratory closing performance from the UTC band