Dr. Bryan Ellis Honored as Part of Grizzly Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025

November 25, 2025 - Kelly Smith

Dr. Bryan Ellis, assistant professor, has joined an elite group of athletes as part of the University of Montana’s Grizzly Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Dr. Ellis was a member of the 2005–06 Montana men’s basketball team, celebrated for its historic NCAA Tournament run.

That season, the Grizzlies captured their second-straight Big Sky Conference championship and earned a No. 12 seed in the NCAA Tournament. They stunned No. 5 seed Nevada with an 87–79 victory—marking one of the biggest moments in Big Sky history and the last time a conference team advanced to the round of 32. The Grizzlies finished the year 24–7, ranking among the nation’s leaders in scoring, field goal percentage, and assists.

“It's a privilege to be honored like this,” said Dr. Ellis. “I get a deep sense of personal gratification from this team accomplishment. I am grateful to have been able to participate and contribute to that talented team. This acknowledgement is one of the most significant highlights of my sports career.”

Dr. Ellis and his teammates will be recognized during the program’s 20th anniversary celebration in 2025–26, cementing their legacy as one of Montana’s most successful squads.