Panthers Wordmark Logo

The Pittsburgh Panthers wordmark logo has been a part of the University of Pittsburgh’s athletic identity since the early 1900s. The iconic design, which features a panther head with an open mouth and fierce eyes, is instantly recognizable to fans across the country. It’s also one of college sports' most enduring logos and has become synonymous with Pitt athletics.

The first iteration of this logo came in 1908 when it was used on pennants for football games at Forbes Field in Oakland, Pennsylvania. In 1910, it became known as “the Panther Head Logo” and was featured prominently on all athletic uniforms from that point forward until 1968, when Pitt changed its mascot from “the Panthers” to “the Steelers." During this period, minor changes were made to the logo, such as adding color or altering small details like facial features. Overall, its basic shape remained unchanged throughout those years.

Today's version dates back to 1982 when then-athletic director Ed Bozik brought back the classic look after consulting with alumni who had fond memories of it during their days attending Pitt sporting events in earlier decades. This modernized version still contains many elements found within previous designs, including two large eyes staring outwards while baring sharp teeth inside an open mouth but now includes more vibrant colors making up both body and background, along with smoother lines around each feature, giving off a sharper appearance than ever before seen before by Panther fans everywhere!