The term 'Ole Miss' itself ... McAllister says the mascot never bothered him a bit. It's understandable to want to keep him simply because you associate him with tailgate parties in the Grove ...

As of this writing, Ole Miss’s official mascot is Tony the Landshark. It should also be noted that Tony the Landshark has not been seen at Ole Miss games of any sport since 2021.

Despite the controversy, the university has no plans to retire the Ole Miss nickname or its Rebels mascot. Michigan State basketball is once again headed to the Sweet 16 in NCAA men's tournament.