The Washington State Cougars athletic program, based at Washington State University in Pullman, Washington, is home to around 15 varsity teams, encompassing both men's and women's sports. Known for their competitive spirit and excellence, the Cougars have a storied history, with strong performances in football, basketball, and baseball, among other sports. The program has nurtured athletes who have gone on to achieve national and international recognition, establishing Washington State University as a key player in collegiate sports.

History of the Washington State Cougars Logo

The Washington State Cougars logo has undergone several transformations since its inception, reflecting the growth and evolution of the athletic program.

1953 – 1955
The first logo for the Cougars featured a bright yellow cougar positioned on a rugby ball, symbolizing aggression and readiness. With its mouth open in an attack stance, the cougar exuded a sense of danger and strength. This logo, which lacked lettering or additional framing, was short-lived, lasting only a few years.

1956 – 1963
In 1956, the logo was redesigned, simplifying the image of the cougar. The new emblem depicted only the cougar's head in white, outlined with black lines. The red tongue added a striking contrast to the design. This version used a color palette of white, red, and black, emphasizing power, determination, and professionalism.

1964 – 1975
By 1964, the logo had evolved further. The cougar's head was now stylized in profile, facing left, with bold, solid elements in a dark burgundy color. The sharper fangs and smoother lines of the cat's head gave the logo a contemporary, strong appearance.

1995 – Present
The current logo, introduced in 1995, strikes a balance between abstraction and meaningful representation. While the design is clean and minimal, it clearly features the head of the cougar, directly connecting to the team's nickname. The dynamic lines and strokes of the logo give it an aggressive and edgy feel, making it well-suited for an athletic identity.

Washington State Cougars Team Colors

• Crimson: Representing the university's bold and passionate spirit, crimson is the primary color.
  • Pantone: PMS 7622 C
  • Hex: #981E32
  • RGB: (152, 30, 50)
  • CMYK: (0, 80, 67, 40)
• Cougars Gray: A secondary color, symbolizing strength and resilience.
  • Pantone: PMS 431 C
  • Hex: #5E6A71
  • RGB: (94, 106, 113)
  • CMYK: (17, 6, 0, 56)

These colors reflect the Cougars' enduring commitment to excellence and their competitive drive across all sports.