As of June 24, 2025, the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul has officially completed its historic transition to full NCAA Division I membership a move that marks a new era for Minnesota collegiate athletics. After four years of reclassification, the Tommies are now fully eligible for postseason tournaments and championship play, including NCAA March Madness, hockey playoffs, and more.
What sets this apart? St. Thomas is the first university in NCAA history to make the jump directly from Division III to Division I a bold move that reflects strong leadership and institutional vision. Since 2021, the Tommies have already captured four conference championships and seen notable success in both men’s basketball and hockey. The excitement is set to build with the upcoming grand opening of the Lee & Penny Anderson Arena in October 2025, a state-of-the-art facility that will house both basketball and hockey programs.
University leaders, including President Rob Vischer and Athletic Director Dr. Phil Esten, credit a united effort across departments, donors, and student-athletes for the success of this reclassification. The Summit League also applauded the milestone, calling it a testament to the school’s strategic planning and athletic foundation.
Whether you're a St. Thomas alum, a local sports fan, or simply proud to call Minnesota home, this is a major win for the Twin Cities. As the Tommies step onto the national stage, their success is sure to elevate not only their university’s profile but also Minnesota’s presence in Division I athletics.
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