TNTennessee Sports

Capital: Nashville · South · Admitted 1796

Sports landscape of Tennessee

Tennessee hosts pro teams across 4 major US sports leagues: NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS. The state's sports culture combines passionate pro fan bases with often-fierce college rivalries and a deep amateur and youth sports scene.

Pro sports presence

NFL (football)	✅ Yes
NBA (basketball)	✅ Yes
MLB (baseball)	❌ No franchise
NHL (hockey)	✅ Yes
MLS (soccer)	✅ Yes
WNBA (women's basketball)	❌ No franchise

College sports

Tennessee's college sports scene is a major part of the state identity. Whether or not the state has pro franchises, college football, basketball, and (in some regions) baseball draw passionate followings. Major conferences with member schools in or near Tennessee typically include the SEC, ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, or American Athletic, depending on the school. College rivalries within the state (or against bordering states) often generate annual cultural events.

State sport (where designated)

Several US states have designated official state sports. Tennessee may or may not be one of them — check the dedicated state symbols page.

Notable signature events

Each state has signature sporting events that locals plan their year around — championships, charity tournaments, rodeos, races, and more.

Bordering states

Tennessee shares borders with 8 other US states.

Sports constraints in the daily puzzle

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Common questions

What pro sports teams play in Tennessee?

Tennessee hosts teams across 4 major US pro sports leagues: NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS.

Does Tennessee have an NFL team?

Yes.

Does Tennessee have an NBA team?