Why Is A Bruin The Mascot Of Ucla?

Joe Bruin, an anthropomorphic male brown bear, is the official mascot of the University of California, Los Angeles’ athletic teams. Born in 1947, he is a beloved figure associated with the university and represents strength, adaptability, and resilience. The Bruin was chosen by UCLA to maintain its association with the Northern campus of the University of California, as they were considered part of the same school.

Students were divided on what the UCLA mascot should be, but when UC Berkeley, which used Bears and Bruins as its mascot, voted to give up the Bruin name to UCLA, it was quickly adopted. The Bruin has represented countless degrees, championships, accomplishments, and stories since its adoption in 1926. In 1950, students and alums received Little Joe Bruin, a Himalayan bear cub from India. However, the University of Montana had already claimed the name for its mascot, so UCLA changed its mascot one last time to the Bruin.

The adoption of the Bruin as UCLA’s mascot led to the creation of perhaps the university’s biggest trademark: “The Bruin” statue in Bruin Plaza. As UCLA approaches 100 years of Bruin pride, the legacy of Westwood’s faithful mascot continues to represent the many students, alumni, faculty, and staff who have called UCLA home. The UCLA Bruins, representing the University of California, Los Angeles, are prominent contenders in NCAA Division I athletics.