Queens University rallies around Buddy the Dog in NCAA tournament Queens University coach Grant Leonard stepped up to the podium Thursday afternoon with an unexpected companion: Buddy, the team’s unofficial mascot. Perched to his right was a hollowed-out replica of a German Shepherd, complete with a studded collar and a “B” necklace. Buddy has been a fixture on the team’s journey to the NCAA men’s tournament, marking their first appearance in the event after a historic run through the American Sun Conference. As the 15-seed Royals prepare to face 2-seed Purdue in St. Louis, Leonard described Buddy as the team’s “spirit animal,” symbolizing the relentless mentality the players are meant to embody. Buddy, technically a trophy, is awarded to the Queens player who contributes in ways not reflected in the box score—such as taking charges or diving for loose balls. The dog, now known as Buddy II, has become a central figure in the team’s identity. His predecessor, Buddy I, was reportedly “injured” during a postgame celebration in January after a victory over Florida Gulf Coast. The current Buddy, purchased via Amazon, travels with the team everywhere, including airports, where redshirt freshman guard Matthew Walter, the team’s unofficial caretaker, ensures his needs are met. The team’s embrace of Buddy reflects a broader cultural shift. Sophomore guard Yoav Berman called Buddy “our identity,” emphasizing the team’s commitment to playing hard in every game. Leonard noted that last summer, the coaching staff sought to instill a “street dog mentality” in the players, who responded by joking they were “dogs.” Assistant coach Adam Short, nicknamed Bulldog, then asked whether they were the pampered type or the scrappy kind that could earn their keep through tough play.#buddy #queens_university #grant_leonard #matthew_walter #yoav_berman
