Harding University Athletics

Harding competes in NCAA Division II, which offers athletic scholarships without the intense pressure of big-time college sports. The Bisons field 14 varsity teams that awarded $4.27 million in athletic scholarships last year. About 13% of students participate in varsity athletics, creating a tight-knit sports community where athletes are campus leaders. The university competes in the Great American Conference against regional rivals. Harding's Christian mission extends to athletics, emphasizing character development alongside competition. The football team plays at First Security Stadium, while basketball games create solid crowds in the Rhodes-Reaves Field House. Student-athletes must balance rigorous academics with their sport, and many continue their Christian service through athletics after graduation.