The UTEP Miners represent the University of Texas at El Paso in NCAA Division I athletics. Known for their passionate fan base and historic wins, the program fields competitive teams in several sports. UTEP Miners football has a proud tradition, while UTEP Miners men’s basketball remains one of the most celebrated programs in school history.
College Sports Established
1914
Location
El Paso, Texas
College Name
University of Texas at El Paso
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
1914 - 1921 / Athletic Association of the United States
Conference History
2005 - Present / Conference USA
1968 - 2004 / Western Athletic Conference
1962 - 1967 / Independent
1935 - 1961 / Border Conference
1914 - 1934 / Independent
Nickname
Miners - The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Miners is one of the most beloved teams in college sports. As a proud fan, you may have wondered where the nickname “Miners” came from. The answer is steeped in history and tradition!
UTEP Miners Origin
The origins of UTEP's Miner moniker can be traced back to 1914 when then-President Joseph Rayam established a mining engineering program at what was then called the Texas State School of Mines and Metallurgy (TSSM). To honor this new educational focus, President Rayam suggested that the school adopt an official mascot—the miner—to represent its students' hard work inside and outside their classrooms. This suggestion was embraced by students, faculty members, alumni, and fans alike, who all proudly adopted "Miner" as TSSM's official mascot shortly after that.
Since its inception over 100 years ago, UTEP has kept accurate to its roots by using “Miners” as its team name with pride throughout various changes in university leadership or athletic programs structure over time. Today it stands for more than just an academic field; it symbolizes strength through adversity which is something that every true UTEP fan can relate to regardless if they're cheering on football or basketball teams during game days!
One powerful message comes from humble beginnings deep within our shared history: Go Miners!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 1
1966
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1963
- 1966
- 1992
- 2002
- 2023
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UTEP Miners men’s basketball team makes its first NCAA Tournament appearance
In 1963: The UTEP Miners men’s basketball team makes its first NCAA Tournament appearance, losing in the first round to Utah State. -
UTEP Miners football team wins the Sun Bowl
In 1966: The UTEP Miners football team, led by head coach Don Haskins, wins the Sun Bowl, marking the first bowl victory in program history. -
UTEP Miners football team wins the WAC championship and the Sun Bowl
In 1992: The UTEP Miners football team wins the WAC championship and the Sun Bowl, marking the second conference championship and bowl victory in program history. -
Fred Carr inducted into the UTEP Athletics Hall of Fame
Fred Carr is a notable athlete who competed for the UTEP Miners football team. He played linebacker for UTEP from 1968-1972 and was a standout player for the program. Carr was named the WAC Defensive Player of the Year in 1971 and was a consensus All-American in 1972. He was selected in the first round of the 1973 NFL Draft ... -
Miners Football Team Wins Conference USA
Miners win 99th Battle of I-10 as Aggies set to join UTEP in Conference USA in 2023
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.
UTEP Miners History
The UTEP Miners represent the University of Texas at El Paso, a program with a proud history in NCAA Division I athletics. Over the years, they have become well known for their tradition of excellence and strong rivalries, including battles with the UTSA Roadrunners and New Mexico State Aggies. From thrilling victories in UTEP Miners football to unforgettable runs in UTEP Miners men’s basketball, the school has built a lasting legacy.
The roots of the program date back to the early 20th century, with football beginning in 1914. UTEP Miners football has celebrated multiple conference championships and has made several bowl appearances, showcasing the program’s ability to compete at a high level. The team’s Sun Bowl, played annually in El Paso, is one of the oldest postseason games in college football and has helped define the university’s role in the sport.
When it comes to UTEP Miners men’s basketball, history was made in 1966 under coach Don Haskins. The Miners, then known as Texas Western, shocked the nation by defeating Kentucky to win the NCAA Championship. That game marked the first time a team with an all-Black starting lineup won the title, breaking barriers and leaving a cultural impact on college basketball history. The victory remains one of the program’s greatest achievements and a defining moment in NCAA history.
Beyond that historic title, the basketball program has made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and has continued to develop talented players. The Miners’ commitment to basketball excellence has secured their place among respected programs in the nation. Fans still celebrate the grit and determination that define UTEP Miners men’s basketball teams.
Other sports at UTEP, including track and field, volleyball, soccer, and baseball, have also produced champions and standout athletes. The men’s track program, in particular, has earned national titles and Olympic medalists, proving the Miners’ ability to succeed across multiple disciplines.
Over the years, the UTEP Miners have added to their trophy case with both team and individual honors. Their tradition in UTEP Miners football includes memorable wins over ranked opponents, while their basketball program continues to honor the legacy of 1966 with competitive teams and passionate fan support.
Miners Achievements
The UTEP Miners are most celebrated for their 1966 NCAA Basketball Championship, a groundbreaking moment in college sports history. In addition, UTEP Miners football has earned conference titles and appeared in multiple bowl games, creating lasting memories for fans in El Paso and beyond.
With strong programs in UTEP Miners men’s basketball, football, and Olympic sports, the Miners continue to inspire athletes and fans alike. Their combination of athletic success, academic pride, and cultural impact ensures that the UTEP Miners will remain an important part of NCAA history for years to come.
