Yale and Brown are both prestigious Ivy League universities with long histories and strong academic reputations. But how do their athletic programs stack up against each other?
This article explores Yale vs Brown by comparing their men’s basketball programs.
Men’s Basketball: A Look Back
Let’s take a quick look at how the Yale Bulldogs and the Brown Bears have fared against one another on the basketball court.
Head-to-Head Record
Since January 2009, Yale has dominated Brown in men’s basketball. Though the series is ongoing, Yale has enjoyed several winning streaks against Brown.
Key Game Statistics
Yale won the first contest between the two teams on January 16, 2009, by a score of 70-62. In the last 10 games (from January 24, 2020, to March 8, 2025), Yale has won nine. The largest margin of victory came on January 22, 2016, when Yale defeated Brown 90-66.
Streaks and stand-out moments
- The longest win streak between Yale and Brown is nine games (January 19, 2019 – January 9, 2024).
- The longest losing streak is a single game, and it happened on March 9, 2024.
- Unfortunately, I don’t have access to information about specific memorable games between the two teams, but there must be some doozies!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Yale and Brown?
While both are Ivy League institutions, Yale is known for its strong drama and law programs, residential college system, and traditional atmosphere. Brown, on the other hand, is known for its open curriculum, which allows students to design their own course of study, and its progressive, student-driven culture. Both offer exceptional academics, but their approaches to education differ significantly.
Where are Yale and Brown located?
Yale University is located in New Haven, Connecticut. It’s a city with a vibrant arts and culture scene, but also faces some urban challenges. Brown University is located in Providence, Rhode Island, a smaller city that offers a more intimate and manageable environment. Providence has a growing food scene and a strong sense of community.
How far apart are Brown and Yale?
Brown University and Yale University are approximately 150 miles (241 kilometers) apart. The drive between the two campuses typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. This makes it relatively easy to visit both schools if you’re considering applying to either.
Is it harder to get into Brown or Yale?
Both Brown and Yale are extremely selective universities, with acceptance rates typically hovering around 5-8%. Yale generally has a slightly lower acceptance rate than Brown, making it arguably more difficult to get into. However, the difference is minimal, and both schools require exceptional academic records, compelling essays, and impressive extracurricular activities.
Summary
Yale vs. Brown basketball is always a hotly contested matchup, full of pride and intensity. These games matter deeply to both universities, their students, and their alumni. As long as the Bulldogs and the Bears share a conference, expect this rivalry to continue to deliver thrilling moments on the court.