The University of Houston Men's Basketball program is set to unveil a striking new look as part of its homage to the city it proudly represents. On February 1, the Cougars will debut their Houston Blue uniforms during their Big 12 Conference showdown against Texas Tech.
The announcement of the Houston Blue uniforms was made during halftime of the Cougars' recent game against Utah at the Fertitta Center, generating excitement among fans and students alike. This initiative is part of the University of Houston Athletics' broader effort to honor the city of Houston by incorporating Houston Blue into its uniform selections. The commemorative uniforms are reserved for special occasions, particularly matchups against in-state rivals.
The Houston Blue concept extends beyond basketball. In the fall, the Houston Football team showcased their Houston Blue uniforms during a thrilling game against Baylor. Houston Volleyball also embraced the color for their match against Texas Tech, while the Women's Golf team proudly wore Houston Blue jerseys early in their fall season. This widespread adoption underscores the university's commitment to celebrating the rich history and culture of the city of Houston.
The significance of Houston Blue dates back over a century. In the early 1920s, the City of Houston installed its original street markers, characterized by light blue and white tiles embedded into drying cement curbs. Remarkably, approximately 4,000 of these historic markers still exist today, serving as a reminder of the city’s unique identity.
In the 1960s, the Houston Police Department adopted the light blue color for their patrol cars, further embedding the hue into the city's visual identity. Additionally, the Houston Buffs, the city’s former minor league baseball team, sported blue lettering on their white and gray jerseys. In 1960, the team’s caps featured a bold blue with a white "H," and by 1961, their jerseys proudly displayed light blue lettering. These historical connections have helped establish Houston Blue as a symbol of pride and tradition for the city.
Fans won’t want to miss the Cougars’ first appearance in their Houston Blue uniforms on February 1. The game against Texas Tech promises to be an electric event, celebrating both the team’s talent and the city’s rich heritage. With the Fertitta Center as the backdrop, the debut of Houston Blue will be a moment to remember, uniting the team, the university, and the city under one vibrant color.