The Washington State Cougars represent one of the most historic athletic programs in college sports. Known for their dedication and passionate fan base, the Cougars have achieved success in multiple sports, including Washington State Cougars football and Washington State Cougars basketball, earning national recognition and producing standout athletes across decades of competition.
College Sports Established
1917
Location
Pullman, Washington
College Name
Washington State University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
1917 - 1921 / Athletic Association of the United States
Conference History
2010 – Present / PAC 12 Conference
1978 – 2010 / Pacific 10 Conference
1962 – 1978 / Pacific 8 Conference
1958 - 1962 / Independent
1917 - 1958 / Pacific Coast Conference
Nickname
Cougars - For sports fans of the Washington State Cougars, it’s essential to know the origins of their beloved team’s nickname. The Cougars have been a part of the NCAA since its inception in 1906 and have had many nicknames.
Washington State Cougars Origin
The most popular origin story for “Cougars” dates back to 1914 when students at Washington State University (WSU) chose this name after noticing that cougar cubs were often seen around campus. This led them to believe that cougars were an integral part of WSU's culture and history, so they adopted this as their new nickname for all athletics teams from then on out.
Since then, other schools across college football have adopted similar versions like "Mountain Lions" or "Wildcats." But none can match the originality and spirit behind being called a true “Cougar." Some alumni say that if you hear someone yell "Go Cougs!" while walking down Main Street in Pullman – home to WSU – you'll be sure knowing where your loyalties lie!
In addition, several famous stories about how former players became known as 'the pride' or 'the roar.' These tales only add excitement and intrigue surrounding one of America's oldest collegiate nicknames: The Washington State University Cougars!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1894
- 1901
- 1983
- 1992
- 2003
- 2010
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Washington State College fields its first football team
In 1894: The Washington State College fields its first football team, playing one game and losing to Idaho 10-0. -
Washington State men’s basketball team is established
In 1901: The Washington State men’s basketball team is established and played its first game against Spokane College. -
Washington State football team wins its third conference championship
In 1983: The Washington State football team wins its third conference championship, and makes its third appearance in the Rose Bowl, losing to Michigan 20-17. -
Cougars – Drew Bledsoe
Bledsoe had a record-setting career in his three years at Washington State. After gaining the starting job at the end of the 1990 season as a true freshman (joined later by Jeff Tuel as the only two in school history), he quickly became the face of the Cougars’ offense. In 1992 Bledsoe led his team to a 9–3 record (ranking ... -
Washington State women’s soccer team wins its first conference championship
In 2003: The Washington State women’s soccer team wins its first conference championship, and makes its first appearance in the NCAA tournament. -
Washington State – Klay Thompson
Thompson led the Pac-10 in scoring as a junior, again earning All-Pac-10 first-team honors. He became just the third Cougar to win first-team all-district honors from the National Association of Basketball Coaches twice in his career. In addition, he became the first Cougar to be named Pac-10 Player of the Week three times when he won the award for the ...
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* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Washington State Cougars History
The Washington State Cougars have built one of the most respected legacies in college athletics, representing passion, dedication, and excellence for more than a century. Founded in 1890 and competing since 1892, the Washington State Cougars football and Washington State Cougars basketball programs have each contributed to the school’s strong athletic tradition within the Pac-12 Conference.
The Washington State Cougars football team played its first game in 1894 and quickly became known for its competitiveness. The Cougars won their first conference championship in 1917 and earned a trip to the Rose Bowl that same season, cementing their early dominance in college football. They continued their strong form with additional conference titles in 1930 and 2002. The program has produced NFL talents like Drew Bledsoe, Jason Hanson, and Gardner Minshew, who carried the WSU legacy to the professional stage.
In Washington State Cougars basketball, the program has had periods of national recognition, especially during the era of legendary players like Klay Thompson, who became one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. WSU reached the Sweet Sixteen in 2008 and has remained competitive in the Pac-12 Conference, known for developing disciplined teams that perform well against top-ranked opponents. Their success reflects the consistent effort of talented athletes and dedicated coaching.
Beyond football and basketball, the Washington State Cougars excel in baseball, track and field, volleyball, and soccer. The baseball program has made several NCAA tournament appearances, while women’s volleyball and soccer teams frequently rank among the best in the conference. Each sport contributes to WSU’s reputation as a well-rounded athletic powerhouse.
Cougars Achievements
Over the decades, the Washington State Cougars football program has celebrated numerous bowl appearances, including the Alamo Bowl, Holiday Bowl, and Sun Bowl. The Cougars’ iconic victories over top-ranked teams have made them one of the most resilient programs in college football. Similarly, Washington State Cougars basketball continues to build momentum, focusing on player development and competitive excellence.
Today, the Washington State Cougars remain a symbol of pride for the university and its fans. From memorable Rose Bowl appearances to thrilling Pac-12 upsets, WSU continues to inspire future generations of athletes and fans. With a passionate following and a tradition of achievement, the Cougars are a cornerstone of collegiate sports in America.
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