The South Alabama Jaguars men's basketball program has competed in the Sun Belt Conference since 1978 when the league was formed.

The school was founded in 1963 and began its men's basketball program in the fall of 1968 under former Auburn standout and Alabama Sports Hall of Fame member Rex Frederick.

When Ellis became head coach, the administrators at South Alabama were thinking of dropping to Division II.

[6] Ellis, also was the athletic director during part of his tenure, led the Jaguars to three Sun Belt titles, two NCAA Tournament appearances and two NITs.

Musselman's 1997 South Alabama team went 23–7 and nearly upset eventual champion University of Arizona in the opening round of the NCAA tournament.

Bob Weltlich was named interim coach at South Alabama in 1997 following Musselman's sudden resignation.

[15] Exactly 1 week later, the Jaguars hired former Nicholls State head coach Richie Riley for the job.

[17] In the 1971 Retrospect (Yearbook) a person is seen wearing a jaguar costume with a paper mache head covered with spotted fur.

In 1986 USA began its first structured mascot program, building the image of South Paw that exists today.

Today, the duo of South Paw and Miss Pawla represent the Jaguars at USA athletic competitions and other events throughout the Mobile community.