Cougars of Any Color

"Cougars of Any Color" by Katherine E. Lopez is a compelling exploration of the University of Houston's athletic program as it sought to shed its underdog reputation through integration in 1964. This insightful book, published by McFarland & Co Inc in 2008, spans 220 pages and delves into the challenges and triumphs faced by the school's first black athletes. Lopez meticulously outlines the athletic department's approach to integration and highlights the significant impact this pivotal change had not only on the University of Houston but also on other athletic programs across the United States. Through a historical lens, "Cougars of Any Color" addresses broader themes of discrimination in sports and the social conditions surrounding African American athletes. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in sports history, social justice, and the evolution of athletics in Texas and beyond.