The Northwestern Wildcats are one of the most respected programs in college athletics. With a proud tradition in Northwestern Wildcats football and achievements in Northwestern Wildcats men’s basketball, the university has built a legacy of excellence. Known for its academic strength and competitive spirit, Northwestern continues to inspire fans and athletes across generations.
College Sports Established
1896
Location
Evanston, Illinois
College Name
Northwestern University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
1907 - 1921 / Athletic Association of the United States
Conference History
1896 – Present / Big 10
Nickname
Wildcats - The Northwestern Wildcats are among the country's most beloved college sports teams. Fans have been drawn to their on-field success and passionate fan base for years. But what many people don’t know is that there is a fascinating story behind the team’s nickname: The Northwestern Wildcats.
Northwestern Wildcats Origin
It all began in 1894 when an alumnus of Northwestern University suggested using “Wildcats” as a mascot for its athletic teams since it was believed to be fierce, agile, and courageous - qualities that could be associated with successful athletes at any level of competition. This suggestion was accepted by students and faculty alike, and soon after, “Wildcats" was officially adopted as their nickname.
Over time, this name has become synonymous with excellence within athletics and other aspects of campus life, such as academics or student organizations – something we can all appreciate! In addition to being used by current students and alumni alike across multiple generations, it has even made its way into popular culture through films like "Bring It On," which featured cheerleaders from fictional Rancho Carne High School who were known affectionately as The Toros (a play on words from Wildcat).
So next time you find yourself cheering for your favorite team, take a moment to remember how they got their start – thanks in part due to an enthusiastic alum back in 1894 who wanted everyone involved with NU Athletics to embody what it means indeed mean when they say Go Cats!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1943
- 1979
- 1996
- 2018
- 2020
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Northwestern Wildcats – Otto Graham
Graham’s first game for the Northwestern Wildcats football team was on October 4, 1941, when he caught a Kansas State punt and returned it 90 yards for a touchdown. He ran and passed for two more touchdowns in the 51–3 victory. After scoring another pair of touchdowns in a win against Wisconsin, Graham passed to his wide receivers for two touchdowns ... -
Northwestern wins its first NCAA men’s basketball tournament game
In 1979: Northwestern wins its first NCAA men’s basketball tournament game against Michigan State. -
Northwestern Big Ten football champions and plays in the Citrus Bowl
In 1996: Northwestern repeats as Big Ten football champions and plays in the Citrus Bowl. -
Northwestern wins Big Ten West division title in football
In 2018: Northwestern wins its third consecutive bowl game, the Holiday Bowl, against Utah, and also wins its first Big Ten West division title in football. -
Wildcats Women’s basketball team wins the Big Ten title
In 2020″: Wildcats Women’s basketball team wins the Big Ten regular season title for the first time since 1990.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Northwestern Wildcats History
The Northwestern Wildcats hold one of the most respected and historic legacies in NCAA sports. Competing since 1876, the university’s teams have built a tradition of excellence both on and off the field. The Wildcats have captured multiple Big Ten championships and earned numerous bowl game appearances. Their rivalry with the Iowa Hawkeyes remains a highlight of each season, showcasing the passion of the Wildcats’ fan base. Known for combining athletic achievement with a strong academic reputation, Northwestern continues to inspire students and alumni alike.
Since joining Division I-A football in 1895, Northwestern Wildcats football has remained a proud and competitive force in the Big Ten Conference. Under Coach Gary Barnett, the Wildcats claimed their first outright Big Ten title in 1995, a milestone season that set the tone for future success. Barnett later moved on to coach at Colorado University from 1999–2005 before retiring from coaching. From 2006 to 2023, Pat Fitzgerald guided the Wildcats’ football program to consistent bowl appearances and Big Ten West Division titles, cementing his status as one of the greatest leaders in school history.
Beyond football, the Northwestern Wildcats men’s basketball team has also made significant strides. With memorable performances at Welsh-Ryan Arena, the team earned its first NCAA Tournament berth in 2017, followed by additional appearances and key victories that elevated the program’s status nationally. The men’s basketball program continues to grow stronger, developing standout players and maintaining its commitment to both academics and athletics.
Wildcats Achievements
Over the decades, the Northwestern Wildcats have produced countless memorable moments across all sports. In football, fans still recall Brett Basanez’s remarkable Hail Mary pass against Michigan State in 2006. In basketball, milestones such as the 2017 NCAA Tournament run showed that Northwestern could compete with the nation’s best.
Today, Northwestern stands as a model of balanced excellence, with Northwestern Wildcats football and Northwestern Wildcats men’s basketball both achieving new heights while upholding the university’s tradition of academic rigor. With Big Ten championships, NCAA Tournament appearances, and a growing roster of professional-level alumni, the Wildcats continue to represent one of the most iconic programs in college sports.
