Longest Losing Streaks in Sports History: A Comparison Across NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, and NCAA

The 2023-24 Pistons find themselves on the brink of infamy, enduring a 28-game losing streak, setting the record for the longest single-season losing streak in NBA history. Their plight, reminiscent of “The Process” 76ers, who shared the same 28-game losing streak across two seasons from 2014 to 2015, has spurred curiosity among fans of other sports. The Sporting News delves into the longest losing streaks in NFL, MLB, NHL, NCAA football, and NCAA basketball history, providing a comprehensive comparison.

Longest Losing Streak in NFL History:

While the struggling Pistons share a fan base with the Detroit Lions, who experienced an 0-16 season in 2008, the Lions’ 19-straight losses from 2007 to 2009 fall short of the NFL’s longest losing streak.

Chicago Cardinals: 29 games, 1942-1945 The Chicago Cardinals endured the NFL’s lengthiest losing streak, spanning 29 games over four seasons. After a six-game losing streak in 1942, the Cardinals posted back-to-back 0-10 seasons in 1943 and 1944. The streak reached 29 games in 1945 before they secured their first win against the Chicago Bears.

Longest Losing Streak in MLB History:

Louisville Colonels: 26 games, 1889 The Louisville Colonels hold MLB’s longest losing streak, dropping 26 consecutive games during the 1889 season. Their dismal record of 27-111 that year ranks as the third-worst in MLB history by win percentage.

Longest Losing Streak in NHL History:

Pittsburgh Penguins: 18 games, 2003-04 In the NHL, the Pittsburgh Penguins suffered an 18-game losing streak during the 2003-04 season. Hindered by Mario Lemieux’s limited play, they recorded just one point for an overtime loss in that span.

Buffalo Sabres: 18 games, 2020-21 The Buffalo Sabres share the NHL record with an 18-game losing streak in the 2020-21 season. Hindered by star player Jack Eichel’s injury, the Sabres recorded three points over that span, finishing the season 15-34-7.

Longest Losing Streak in NCAA Football History:

Northwestern: 34 games, 1979-1982 Northwestern football endured a 34-game losing streak spanning three seasons from 1979 to 1982. Despite the streak, Coach Dennis Green received Big Ten Coach of the Year honors in 1982 for leading Northwestern to three wins after two consecutive winless seasons.

Longest Losing Streak in NCAA Basketball History:

Chicago State (Women’s): 59 games, 2016-2018 The Chicago State Lady Cougars hold the NCAA women’s basketball record with a 59-game losing streak from 2016 to 2018.

Towson (Men’s): 41 games, 2011-2012 Towson University’s men’s basketball team endured a 41-game losing streak from 2011 to 2012.

These records reflect the resilience of teams overcoming adversity and the enduring spirit of sports.