Wyoming Cowboys

Are part of the Mountain West Conference, were established in 1886, and their home arena is the Arena-Auditorium, University of Wyoming in Laramie, Wyoming.

Intriguing Facts About Wyoming Cowboys

The Cowboys’ journey in the realm of basketball began in the early 20th century, marking them as one of the storied programs in NCAA history. This long-standing history sets them apart, showcasing a tradition steeped in basketball lore.
They pioneered one of the most critical aspects of modern basketball – the jump shot. This innovation, brought forth by Ken Sailors during the 1943 NCAA championship, revolutionized how the game is played, marking the Cowboys as trendsetters in basketball tactics.
Wyoming Cowboys were the 1943 NCAA champions, an achievement that highlights their early dominance in the sport and their capacity to excel at the national level. This victory remains a shining moment in the history of the program, symbolizing their potential and competitive spirit.
The team has made a remarkable 16 appearances in the NCAA tournament, showcasing their consistent performance and ability to compete at the highest levels of college basketball. This consistency underlines the program’s enduring quality and resilience in the face of changing times and challenges.
They have fostered a unique and intense rivalry with Colorado State, adding an extra competitive edge to their games. This rivalry is not just about sports; it’s a reflection of regional pride and the deep-seated competitive spirit that drives collegiate athletics.

The Historical Tapestry of Wyoming Cowboys

The Wyoming Cowboys’ basketball program began as a small, unassuming venture in 1905 and grew to become a force to be reckoned with in the world of collegiate basketball. The early years saw the team laying the foundations of what would become a rich basketball tradition, marked by gradual improvements and growing regional recognition. The program’s rise to prominence was not sudden but rather a result of persistent efforts and strategic growth. The 1930s and 1940s saw the emergence of the Cowboys as a powerhouse, especially under the guidance of Coach Willard Witte, leading to their pinnacle achievement – the 1943 NCAA Championship victory. This period in their history was not just about winning games; it was about setting a standard and establishing a legacy that would influence the program for decades to come.

The Golden Era

The golden era of the Cowboys, under the guidance of Coach Everett Shelton from 1939 to 1959, is a period etched in the annals of basketball history. Shelton’s philosophy of disciplined play, teamwork, and strategic innovation transformed the team into a national powerhouse. The 1943 NCAA Championship victory under his leadership was a culmination of this transformative period. Key players like Ken Sailors, with his revolutionary jump shot, and Milo Komenich, a tower of strength on the court, were instrumental in this triumph. This era was not just about winning a championship; it was about setting a standard of excellence and innovation that would become synonymous with the Cowboys basketball program.

The Current Landscape

In recent times, under the leadership of Coach Jeff Linder, the Wyoming Cowboys have been focused on rebuilding and striving for consistent performance in an ever-competitive collegiate basketball landscape. Despite facing various challenges, the team has shown glimpses of promise and resilience, notably with their victory against Oregon State. The recent seasons have been a mix of fluctuating successes and learning experiences, but the team continues to work hard towards achieving excellence. The current era is characterized by a focus on nurturing young talent, developing strategic gameplay, and fostering a team spirit that resonates with the rich history of the program.

Legendary Figures in Wyoming Cowboys History

The history of the Wyoming Cowboys is adorned with legendary figures who have left an indelible mark on the program. Players like Ken Sailors, Fennis Dembo, and Milo Komenich stand out not just for their on-court achievements but also for their contributions to the team’s legacy. These individuals have become synonymous with the Cowboys’ tradition of excellence, inspiring future generations of players. Their stories are not just about individual glory; they are about leadership, innovation, and the enduring spirit of Wyoming basketball.

A Game to Remember

Among the many memorable games in Cowboys history, the victory in the 1943 NCAA Championship remains unparalleled. This game was not just a display of skill and tenacity; it was a moment that solidified the Cowboys’ place in basketball history. The game’s context, the high stakes, and the dramatic moments made it a classic, etching it in the memory of basketball enthusiasts and setting a benchmark for future Cowboys teams.

Wyoming Cowboys 2024 Schedule

Regular Season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result
Week 1	Date: Tue 07/11/2023	Opponent: Northern New Mexico Eagles	Result: W 104-56
Week 1	Date: Sat 11/11/2023	Opponent: Cal Poly SLO Mustangs	Result: W 80-66
Week 2	Date: Thu 16/11/2023	Opponent: Saint Louis Billikens	Result: L 69-79
Week 2	Date: Fri 17/11/2023	Opponent: Charleston Cougars	Result: W 67-60
Week 2	Date: Sun 19/11/2023	Opponent: Furman Paladins	Result: W 78-71
Week 3	Date: Sun 26/11/2023	Opponent: Texas Longhorns	Result: L 63-86
Week 4	Date: Fri 01/12/2023	Opponent: Portland Pilots	Result: L 70-81
Week 5	Date: Tue 05/12/2023	Opponent: South Dakota Mines Hardrockers	Result: W 80-59
Week 5	Date: Sat 09/12/2023	Opponent: Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks	Result: W 78-70
Week 6	Date: Sat 16/12/2023	Opponent: Weber St. Wildcats	Result: L 71-84
Week 7	Date: Wed 20/12/2023	Opponent: South Dakota State Jackrabbits	Result: W 78-65
Week 7	Date: Thu 21/12/2023	Opponent: South Dakota State Jackrabbits	Result: TBD
Week 7	Date: Thu 21/12/2023	Opponent: Texas-El Paso Miners	Result: L 67-78
Week 8	Date: Sat 30/12/2023	Opponent: Brigham Young Cougars	Result: L 68-94
Week 9	Date: Tue 02/01/2024	Opponent: San Jose St. Spartans	Result: W 75-73
Week 9	Date: Sat 06/01/2024	Opponent: New Mexico Lobos	Result: L 60-77
Week 10	Date: Tue 09/01/2024	Opponent: Utah St. Aggies	Result: L 59-83
Week 10	Date: Sat 13/01/2024	Opponent: Fresno St. Bulldogs	Result: W 68-67
Week 11	Date: Sat 20/01/2024	Opponent: Nevada Wolf Pack	Result: W 98-93
Week 12	Date: Tue 23/01/2024	Opponent: San Diego St. Aztecs	Result: L 65-81
Week 12	Date: Sat 27/01/2024	Opponent: Colorado St. Rams	Result: W 79-76
Week 13	Date: Tue 30/01/2024	Opponent: Air Force Falcons	Result: W 83-72
Week 13	Date: Sat 03/02/2024	Opponent: UNLV Rebels	Result: L 48-62
Week 14	Date: Tue 06/02/2024	Opponent: New Mexico Lobos	Result: L 73-91
Week 15	Date: Wed 14/02/2024	Opponent: Utah St. Aggies	Result: L 76-84
Week 15	Date: Sat 17/02/2024	Opponent: San Jose St. Spartans	Result: W 80-75
Week 16	Date: Tue 20/02/2024	Opponent: Nevada Wolf Pack	Result: L 58-76
Week 16	Date: Sat 24/02/2024	Opponent: Boise St. Broncos	Result: L 72-92
Week 17	Date: Tue 27/02/2024	Opponent: UNLV Rebels	Result: L 69-75
Week 17	Date: Sat 02/03/2024	Opponent: Colorado St. Rams	Result: L 62-70
Week 18	Date: Tue 05/03/2024	Opponent: Air Force Falcons	Result: W 74-63
Week 18	Date: Sat 09/03/2024	Opponent: Fresno St. Bulldogs	Result: W 86-47

Post Season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result
Conf. Tournament	Date: Wed 13/03/2024	Opponent: Fresno St. Bulldogs	Result: L 73-77

Home of Wyoming Cowboys: Arena-Auditorium

The Arena-Auditorium, affectionately known as “The Dome of Doom”, is more than just a sports venue; it’s the heart and soul of the Wyoming Cowboys basketball program. Since 1982, this arena has been the battleground where the Cowboys have displayed their basketball prowess. With a capacity of 11,612, it’s known for its electric atmosphere, where fans come together to support their team, creating an intimidating environment for visiting teams. The history of this venue is intertwined with the history of the Cowboys, hosting countless memorable games and moments that have contributed to the lore of Wyoming basketball.