UC Riverside Highlanders History

The UC Riverside Highlanders have developed a strong presence in college athletics, competing across multiple sports with notable success. From exciting moments in Riverside Highlanders basketball to the spirited legacy of UC Riverside Highlanders football, the program has showcased talent, resilience, and school pride throughout its history.

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College Sports Established
1958

Location
Riverside, California

College Name
University of California, Riverside

Collegiate History
2000 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1971 - 2000 / NCAA Division II

Conference History
2001 - Present / Big West Conference
2000 / Independent

Nickname
Highlanders - When UC Riverside opened in February 1954, it had classrooms, a new Physical Education Building, and a student body eager to inaugurate the new school. What it didn’t have, however, was a mascot.

UC Riverside Highlanders Origin

The controversy raged throughout the opening weeks of that inaugural school year as different factions argued over what symbol should represent the newest UC school. Many wanted a bear symbol to compete with the Bruins of UCLA and the Bears of Berkeley. In contrast, others wanted to go in a completely different direction, demonstrating the independence and uniqueness of the school.

The student body initially suggested a total of 67 nicknames. The names ran the gamut, from the wild (Bearcats, Rams, Bisons, Badgers, Gorillas) to the uninspired (Rovers, Ramblers, Possums, Chihuahuas, Valencias). There were colorful names (Red Raiders, Golden Eagles, Bluejays, Golden Beavers, Orangemen), names befitting the area’s heritage and environment (Caballeros, Friars, Vaqueros, Rattlers, Scorpions, Pioneers), and names that were, frankly, just weird (Aphids, Rocks, Bondsmen).

An election in November 1954 saw none of the proposed six nicknames receive a majority. While “Cubs” was the most popular of the six, many rallied against it because it showed the campus as a “little brother” to schools like UCLA and Cal. A write-in campaign, led by the men’s basketball team, was begun for the name “Hylanders,” a name suggested by freshman Donna Lewis. The name was changed to its current spelling and won easily. In recognition of her contribution to the university, Lewis received a lifetime pass to all athletic events.

“Highlanders” fit the campus well for several reasons. The Box Springs Mountains, which stand behind the campus, were known as the Highlands. In addition, UCR is the highest-elevation campus in the UC System.

NCAA Championships
Baseball 0

Men's Basketball 0

Women's Basketball 0

Football 0

Soccer 0

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The UC Riverside Highlanders have built a proud athletic tradition that continues to inspire fans across California and beyond. Known for their spirited rivalry with the UC Irvine Anteaters, the Highlanders have made their mark in multiple sports. From their early years to memorable NCAA appearances, the program has grown into a respected name in collegiate athletics.

The Highlanders began competing in Riverside Highlanders basketball in the 1950s, starting with local matchups before joining the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). They quickly earned recognition by winning conference championships and developing strong rivalries with schools such as Cal Poly Pomona and San Diego State. In 1960, they transitioned into the Pacific Coast Athletic Association, now the Big West Conference, setting the stage for future success.

In the late 1970s, under head coach Bill Mulligan, the UC Riverside Highlanders basketball program reached new heights with NCAA Tournament appearances in 1977 and 1979. Although they fell to powerhouse programs like Marquette and Indiana State, these runs established UCR as a competitive Division I program. Their determination and strong performances cemented their place in the history of West Coast basketball.

The Highlanders later found renewed success in the 2000s. Under coach Dennis Cutts, they made notable postseason appearances, including the NIT in 2008 and 2010, followed by the CIT in 2011. These achievements kept Riverside Highlanders basketball relevant on the national stage and gave fans plenty to celebrate.

In recent years, coach David Patrick guided the team to a historic NCAA Tournament berth, highlighted by a competitive game against Iowa State in 2020 at Madison Square Garden. This milestone marked the first UC Riverside Highlanders basketball appearance in March Madness, showcasing the team’s resilience and growth over decades of competition.

Highlanders Achievements

Beyond basketball, the UC Riverside Highlanders football program also played an important role in the school’s athletic history. Though the football program was discontinued in the 1970s, it left behind a legacy of school pride and memorable seasons that remain part of UCR’s story. The Highlanders have since focused on excelling in other sports, carrying forward that competitive spirit.

Over the years, the Highlanders have celebrated numerous conference championships, individual player awards, and moments of national recognition. Their athletes continue to excel across multiple sports, reflecting the determination and heart of the university. Fans of the UC Riverside Highlanders know they can always expect spirited competition and exciting performances.

Looking forward, the UC Riverside Highlanders, whether in Riverside Highlanders basketball or the broader athletics program, are poised to achieve even greater success. With strong coaching, dedicated athletes, and passionate fans, UCR remains a proud part of the Big West Conference and a program that will keep making history.

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