Las Vegas boasts a dynamic sports culture, encompassing high school athletics, collegiate competitions, and professional teams. This guide provides an overview of the city’s sports landscape.
High School Athletics
Las Vegas is home to numerous high schools with robust athletic programs. Here are some notable institutions:
Las Vegas High School
Known as the Wildcats, Las Vegas High School competes in the 5A Division III Southern sports division. The school has a storied history in football, including a remarkable 1944 season where the team did not concede a single point. The Wildcats maintain historic rivalries, notably the Bone Game against Rancho High School, the oldest football rivalry in Nevada.
Shadow Ridge High School
The Mustangs of Shadow Ridge High School participate in various sports. Recent records include a 20-8 season in boys’ basketball and an 8-3 record in football, showcasing the school’s competitive spirit.
Cheyenne High School
Cheyenne High School offers a diverse range of sports across different seasons. Fall sports include cross country, football, soccer, and tennis; winter sports feature wrestling, bowling, and basketball; while spring sports encompass golf, volleyball, swim & dive, baseball, and track & field.
Collegiate Sports
Las Vegas is also home to prominent collegiate athletic programs:
University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)
UNLV’s Rebels compete in NCAA Division I as part of the Mountain West Conference, fielding teams in 16 sports. The university’s athletic programs have a rich history and continue to contribute significantly to the local sports scene.
College of Southern Nevada (CSN)
CSN’s Coyotes offer nine competitive sports teams, providing opportunities for student-athletes and fostering school spirit among the student body.
Professional Sports
Las Vegas has become a hub for professional sports, hosting several major league teams:
Las Vegas Raiders
The NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders play their home games at Allegiant Stadium. The upcoming season features notable matchups, including home games against the Miami Dolphins on September 13, 2026, and the Kansas City Chiefs on October 4, 2026.
Other Professional Teams
In addition to the Raiders, Las Vegas is home to other professional teams, including the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights and the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces, each contributing to the city’s vibrant sports culture.
Whether you’re a fan of high school rivalries, collegiate competitions, or professional matchups, Las Vegas offers a diverse and exciting sports environment for all enthusiasts.