Rebels Primary Logo
The UNLV Rebels have a proud history of athletic excellence, and their primary logo is an important part of that legacy. The iconic design has been around since the early 1970s and continues to be used today as the official symbol for all UNLV athletics teams.
The original logo was designed by then-student John Miller in 1972. It featured a red shield with white stars on either side, along with two crossed swords underneath it. This initial design was meant to represent strength and courage, which are still core values associated with the university today.
In 1979, Miller updated his original logo to include an outline of Nevada’s state flag within the red shield shape; this addition further reinforced UNLV’s connection to its home state while also adding more depth and detail to the overall look of the emblem.
In 1998, designer Michael Bierut created another update for what would become known as “the modern era” version of UNLV's beloved primary logo – this time incorporating new colors (red & black) into both sides of each sword blade while keeping true-to-form elements like stars on either side intact from previous designs before it. The resulting image is one that pays homage not only to Nevada but also represents tradition & pride throughout college sports nationwide — something fans can rally behind when cheering on their favorite team!
Over time there have been slight variations made here or there (like font changes), however, these minor tweaks don't detract from how recognizable & meaningful this mark remains in collegiate sports circles even after nearly 50 years since its inception back in 1972 – making it one truly timeless piece artwork!
2018 - Present
Arched initials “UNLV” in red with black trim.
2017 - 2018
In June 2017, UNLV unveiled an updated modern logo bringing in the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” star and the “Hey Reb!” iconic mascot with a touch of the mountain ranges from the Southern Nevada area. The logo is in black, grey, and red with a stylish-looking hat. Initials arched above “UNLV” in red.
2009 - 2017
A black, red, and white headshot of a rebel with a black and grey hat with a feather below the initials “UNLV” in red with black trim.
Slight changes to the color.
2006 - 2009
A black, red, and white headshot of a rebel with a black and grey hat with a feather below the initials “UNLV” in red with black trim.
1997 - 2005
A black, red, grey and white head shot of a rebel with a black and grey hat with a feather below the initials “UNLV” in red with white and black trim.
1983 - 1997
The UNLV mascot called “Hey Reb!.” Hey Reb is in black, red, grey white, and yellow wearing a grey hat with a white and grey feather. He has a stylish long yellow mustache. He is also carrying a black and white long rifle.
1977 - 1983
Called the “Sun Logo.” A centered black circle with the initials of “UNLV” in black encircling the black sun continuously.
A brief break when UNLV used the “Colonial Soldier” logo to celebrate America’s Bicentennial in 1975 – 1976.
1975 - 1977
A black colonial soldier next to the wordmark “UNLV REBELS” in black and 13 white stars in the letter “R.”
Used during the Bicentennial.
1974 - 1975
Called the “Sun Logo.” A centered black circle with the initials of “UNLV” in black encircling the black sun continuously.
1967 - 1973
A black and white wolf’s head wearing a hat with an arched wordmark “REBELS” below in black.