The Oklahoma State Cowboys are a cornerstone of NCAA athletics with a rich tradition spanning over a century. Known for the strength of Oklahoma State Cowboys football and the competitive edge of Oklahoma State Cowboys basketball, the program has earned a reputation for championships, legendary players, and memorable moments that inspire fans nationwide.
College Sports Established
1901
Location
Stillwater, Oklahoma
College Name
Oklahoma State University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1915 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1996 – Present / Big 12 Conference
1957 - 1996 / Big Eight Conference
1956 - 1957 / Independent
1927 - 1956 / Missouri Valley Conference
1924 - 1927 / Missouri Valley Intercollegiate Athletic Association
1914 - 1924 / Southwest Conference
1901 - 1914 / Independent
Nickname
Cowboys - The Oklahoma State Cowboys have been a staple of college football for decades, and their iconic nickname has become synonymous with the program. But where did this beloved moniker come from? Let's look at the origins of the Oklahoma State Cowboys nickname to find out!
Oklahoma State Cowboys Origin
It all started in 1920 when Charles "Brick" Mason was hired as head coach for what was then known as Oklahoma A&M College. Coach Mason wanted to give his team an edge on the field by creating an intimidating image to strike fear into opponents' hearts. During this time, he drew inspiration from cowboys and ranchers who were familiar with sights around Stillwater, OK. Thus, he chose “Cowboys” as his team’s official mascot name, and it stuck ever since!
In addition to having one of college football's most recognizable nicknames, The Cowboys also boast some impressive stats throughout their history, including numerous conference championships and bowl appearances over 90 years ago. Despite being a relatively small school compared to other major universities in NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), OSU continues to make its mark every year thanks strong fan base dedicated to players both past and present. This loyalty is part of why Cowboy Nation is so unique; it makes them stand out from the rest sports world!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 1
1959
Men's Basketball 2
1946, 1945
Women's Basketball 0
Football 1
1945
Soccer 0
- 1897
- 1944
- 1959
- 1988
- 2015
- 2022
-
Oklahoma State Cowboys first Football game
In 1897: The first football team is formed, coached by A.R. Kennedy. The team plays its first game against Oklahoma A&M and loses 34–6. -
1944 basketball team wins conference champions
In 1944: The basketball team repeats as conference champions and makes its second appearance in the NCAA tournament, losing to Utah in the national semifinals and Iowa State in the third-place game. Bob Kurland is named a consensus All-American for the second time. -
Cowboys NCAA Baseball Champs 1959
The 1959 Cowboys baseball team entered the season not expected to do much. Only four players left fielder Don Soergel, and pitchers Roy Peterson, Joel Horlen, and Dick Soergel, were on the roster from the previous season. The preseason prospectus for 1959 read, “The baseball outlook for coach Toby Greene’s 16th edition of Cowboy baseball is quite questionable. Despite the ... -
OSU – Barry Sanders
Enrolling at Oklahoma State University, Sanders played for the Oklahoma State Cowboys from 1986 to 1988 and wore the No. 21. During his first two years, he backed up All-American Thurman Thomas. In 1987, he led the nation in yards per kickoff return (31.6), while also rushing for over 600 yards and scoring 8 touchdowns. Thomas moved on to the ... -
Cowboys Football team first appearance in Sugar bowl
In 2015: The football team wins its tenth conference championship and makes its first appearance in the Sugar Bowl, losing to Ole Miss 48–20. The team finishes with a 10–3 record and ranks 20th in the final AP poll. Emmanuel Ogbah is named a consensus All-American. -
Spencer Sanders – Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year
In 2022: The football team wins its 11th conference championship and makes its second appearance in the Fiesta Bowl, defeating Notre Dame 37–35. The team finishes with a 12–2 record and ranks seventh in the final AP poll. Spencer Sanders is named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year.
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.
Oklahoma State Cowboys History
The Oklahoma State Cowboys have one of the richest traditions in NCAA athletics, often competing in intense rivalries with the Oklahoma Sooners. Dating back to the early 1900s, the program has grown into a powerhouse across multiple sports. From their first conference championship in 1915 to their continued success today, the Oklahoma State Cowboys remain a benchmark for excellence in collegiate sports.
As a proud member of the Big 12 Conference since 1996, the Oklahoma State Cowboys have secured numerous championships in men’s and women’s sports. Titles include 11 in Oklahoma State Cowboys football, 5 in Oklahoma State Cowboys basketball, 3 in baseball, and 7 in track & field and cross-country. These achievements demonstrate the program’s consistent ability to compete at the highest level year after year.
The program also boasts legendary athletes. Heisman Trophy winner Barry Sanders electrified fans during his historic 1988 season. Other standout names include NFL receiver Dez Bryant, NBA guard Marcus Smart, Olympic gold medalist and wrestling coach John Smith, and baseball star Robin Ventura. Such athletes cement the Oklahoma State Cowboys as one of college sports’ most successful programs.
The Oklahoma State Cowboys football tradition is celebrated nationwide for its high-powered offenses and passionate game days at Boone Pickens Stadium. The program regularly appears in major bowl games and consistently produces NFL-ready talent. This enduring excellence has helped maintain the Cowboys’ status as one of the premier football programs in the country.
Cowboys Achievements
Likewise, Oklahoma State Cowboys basketball has its own decorated history with multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and Final Four runs. The team has produced numerous NBA players and continues to compete at the top of the Big 12, reinforcing its reputation as one of college basketball’s proudest programs.
Beyond the wins and records, the Oklahoma State Cowboys are known for their iconic mascot Pistol Pete, vibrant orange colors, and a fan base that spans the globe. Students, alumni, and supporters unite to celebrate Cowboy pride at every event, creating an unmatched atmosphere. Whether on the field, court, or track, the Oklahoma State Cowboys embody tradition, excellence, and passion in NCAA competition.
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