The Mountain West Conference (MWC) is one of the most competitive leagues in NCAA football & basketball, featuring some of the best Western U.S. schools. Founded in 1999, the MWC has grown into a major player in college athletics, producing NFL and NBA talent while thrilling fans with intense rivalries.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to Mountain West Conference sports, this guide covers everything—history, top teams, key rivalries, and what makes the MWC unique.
History of the Mountain West Conference
The MWC was established in 1999 after eight schools split from the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). The founding members sought greater autonomy and better competition, leading to the birth of a new era in college athletics.
Key Milestones:
- 1999: MWC officially formed with Air Force, BYU, Colorado State, New Mexico, San Diego State, UNLV, Utah, and Wyoming.
- 2005–2013: Expansion added Boise State, Fresno State, Nevada, and more.
- 2013: The MWC became a Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) conference.
- Today: The conference includes 12 member schools, competing in football, basketball, and other NCAA sports.
Top Mountain West Conference Teams
The MWC is home to powerhouse programs that consistently compete at a high level. Here are some of the most notable teams:
🏈 Football Powerhouses
- Boise State Broncos – Known for their blue turf and multiple Fiesta Bowl wins.
- San Diego State Aztecs – A consistent contender with strong defensive play.
- Air Force Falcons – Unique triple-option offense and disciplined play.
🏀 Basketball Contenders
- San Diego State Aztecs – 2023 NCAA Championship runner-up.
- UNLV Runnin’ Rebels – Historic program with a national title (1990).
- Nevada Wolf Pack – Frequent March Madness appearances.
Key Rivalries in the MWC
Rivalries fuel the excitement in college athletics, and the Mountain West Conference has some of the best:
- Boise State vs. Fresno State (“Battle of the Blue”) – A fierce football rivalry.
- UNLV vs. San Diego State (Basketball Showdowns) – High-stakes MWC clashes.
- Wyoming vs. Colorado State (“Border War”) – One of the oldest rivalries in college football.
Why the MWC Stands Out in College Athletics
The Mountain West Conference isn’t just another NCAA league—it’s a breeding ground for future pros and must-watch matchups. Here’s why:
✅ Underdog Success – Teams like Boise State have beaten Power 5 schools in major bowls.
✅ NBA & NFL Talent – MWC alumni include Josh Allen (NFL) and Kawhi Leonard (NBA).
✅ Exciting Postseason Play – The MWC frequently sends teams to March Madness and NY6 bowls.
How to Follow the Mountain West Conference
Want to stay updated on MWC action? Here’s how:
- Watch: Games air on CBS Sports Network, Fox Sports, and ESPN.
- Follow: Official MWC social media and team accounts.
- Attend: Check schedules and buy tickets for live games.
Pro Tip: Add upcoming MWC events to your calendar using ConferencesDaily’s event tool.
FAQs About the Mountain West Conference
1. How many teams are in the Mountain West Conference?
The MWC currently has 12 member schools, competing in football, basketball, and other sports.
2. Has a Mountain West team ever won a national championship?
Yes! UNLV basketball won the NCAA title in 1990 (before joining the MWC). In football, no MWC team has won a CFP title, but Boise State has claimed multiple major bowl wins.
3. Which MWC school has the best football program?
Boise State is historically the strongest, with multiple Fiesta Bowl victories and consistent Top 25 rankings.
4. Will the MWC expand in the future?
Possibly. With conference realignment reshaping college athletics, the MWC could add new members to stay competitive.
5. Where is the Mountain West Conference headquarters?
The MWC is based in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Final Thoughts
The Mountain West Conference continues to be a major force in NCAA football & basketball, with passionate fan bases and thrilling competition. From historic rivalries to Cinderella March Madness runs, the MWC delivers unforgettable moments.
Want to stay updated on MWC events? Add games to your calendar here and never miss a showdown!
