The Texas Longhorns have a long-standing tradition of excellence in NCAA athletics, especially in Texas Longhorns football and Texas Longhorns baseball. Competing with pride since the late 1800s, the Longhorns are known for their passionate fan base, historic rivalries, and national achievements that have made them one of the most respected college sports programs.
College Sports Established
1915
Location
Austin, Texas
College Name
University of Texas at Austin
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
1915 - 1921 / Athletic Association of the United States
Conference History
2024 - Present / SEC Conference
1996 – 2024 / Big 12 Conference
1915 - 1996 / Southwest Conference
Nickname
Longhorns - The Texas Longhorns are among the nation's most iconic college sports teams. Their trademark burnt orange and white colors and “Hook 'em Horns” hand sign have become synonymous with collegiate athletics. But where did this nickname come from? Let's take a look at the origins of this beloved team name!
Texas Longhorns Origin
The Texas Longhorns first adopted their famous moniker in 1900 when they were still known as the Varsity Football Association. The association was made up mostly of alumni from the University of Texas who wanted to play football on campus but weren't eligible for varsity competition due to NCAA rules. They decided to call themselves "Longhorns" after seeing a herd of longhorn cattle near Austin, TX, that reminded them fondly about home state pride and heritage- something they could rally behind while playing football together on campus grounds!
Since then, many other schools around the country have adopted similar nicknames inspired by UT's success, such as Oklahoma State Cowboys or LSU Tigers; however, none can compare with the originality and spirit found within “Texas Longhorns” brand today, which continues bring out the best fans across the US every Saturday during fall season each year!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 6
2005, 2002, 1983, 1975, 1950, 1949
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 1
1986
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1930
- 1963
- 1969
- 1986
- 2005
- 2014
-
Texas wins its first SWC men’s basketball title
In 1930: Texas wins its first Southwest Conference (SWC) men’s basketball title and makes its first NCAA Tournament appearance. -
Longhorns national championship title in football
In 1963: Texas wins its first national championship in football, led by Heisman Trophy runner-up Tommy Nobis. -
Second National Championship in Football
In 1969: Texas wins its second national championship in football, led by Heisman Trophy winner Steve Worster. The last all-white national championship team. Julius Whittier, the first African-American Longhorn, was enrolled as a freshman but not eligible due to NCAA regulations at the time. -
1986 NCAA Champs in Women’s Basketball
The 1986 NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Tournament began on March 12 and ended on March 30. The tournament expanded to 40 teams from 32. The Final Four consisted of Texas, Tennessee, Western Kentucky, and USC, with Texas defeating Southern California, 97-81 in the championship game. Texas’s Clarissa Davis was named the Most Outstanding Player of the tournament. With their ... -
2005 Texas Baseball College World Series Champs
The 2005 NCAA Division I Baseball Tournament was held from May 30 through June 26, 2005. Sixty-four NCAA Division I college baseball teams met after having played their way through a regular season, and for some, a conference tournament, to play in the NCAA Tournament. The tournament culminated with 8 teams in the College World Series at historic Rosenblatt Stadium ... -
Texas hires Charlie Strong as its head football coach
In 2014: Texas hires Charlie Strong as its head football coach, becoming the first African-American head coach in program history.
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.
Texas Longhorns History
The Texas Longhorns stand as one of the most successful and respected programs in NCAA history, consistently competing against top rivals like the Texas A&M Aggies and Oklahoma Sooners. Established in 1893, the university’s athletic tradition has produced countless national titles, elite athletes, and unforgettable moments that define college sports excellence.
The Texas Longhorns football program quickly rose to prominence under the guidance of legendary coach Darrell K Royal. During his tenure from 1957 to 1976, Royal led the team to three national championships (1963, 1969, 1970) and ten Southwest Conference titles, setting the foundation for decades of dominance. His wishbone offense became a revolutionary strategy, influencing generations of college football coaches.
After Royal’s retirement, coaches like Fred Akers and John Mackovic maintained the Longhorns’ winning tradition. Akers guided the team to several major bowl appearances, while Mackovic captured multiple conference championships in the 1990s. Under Mack Brown, the Texas Longhorns football program experienced another golden era, highlighted by the 2005 National Championship led by star quarterback Vince Young in one of the greatest title games ever played.
The Texas Longhorns baseball program is equally prestigious, claiming six national championships and consistently ranking among the best in NCAA baseball. Legendary coaches like Cliff Gustafson and Augie Garrido led the team to numerous College World Series appearances, helping Texas become one of the most decorated baseball programs in the nation. Their success on the diamond mirrors the excellence seen across all Longhorn athletics.
Longhorns Achievements
Beyond football and baseball, the Longhorns excel in basketball, track and field, volleyball, and swimming. The Texas Longhorns basketball teams have reached multiple NCAA tournaments, producing NBA talent and thrilling fans with their competitive spirit. Texas has also won over 50 NCAA team championships across various sports, a testament to the university’s all-around athletic dominance.
Today, the Texas Longhorns continue to thrive as members of the Big 12 Conference, preparing to join the SEC. With rich traditions, record-breaking athletes, and passionate fans, Texas remains a national powerhouse. From the gridiron to the baseball diamond, the legacy of the Texas Longhorns football and Texas Longhorns baseball programs continues to inspire pride and excellence across the Lone Star State.
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