Arizona in Talks to Leave Pac-12 and Join Big 12
In a shocking turn of events, Arizona may be on the verge of leaving the Pac-12 conference and joining the Big 12. Sources have revealed that the Wildcats have shown a strong inclination towards the Big 12 after days of discussions. Arizona has been part of the Pac-12 since 1978, but it seems that the school is seriously considering a move.
The Arizona Board of Regents, which oversees both the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, is set to have a meeting on Thursday night to discuss “possible legal advice and discussion regarding university athletics.” Many presume that the agenda item will revolve around conference affiliation.
Despite the talks of Arizona moving to the Big 12, there is a sentiment within both athletic departments that a split between Arizona and Arizona State is unlikely and not desired. Sources suggest that it would be surprising if the Wildcats left their rivals behind in the Pac-12.
Power brokers at both schools, including key members of the Board of Regents, have expressed their preference to maintain the historic UA-ASU rivalry and partnership. The big question now is whether the Big 12 is open to expanding to 16 members by also bringing Utah on board.
Reports indicate that Big 12 executives have already approved Arizona as the conference’s 14th member, pending approval from the Board of Regents. If the move goes through, it would have significant implications for the already uncertain future of the Pac-12. Last week, Colorado left the conference to join the Big 12, and now the departure of Arizona could further shake up the landscape.
The Big 12 has been eyeing expansion for some time, specifically targeting the Pac-12’s “Four Corners” schools. Arizona State and Utah are seen as the most likely schools to join the conference if further expansion is pursued.
Should the Pac-12 lose more members from its Southern bloc, it could trigger another round of realignment. Rumors are swirling that the Big Ten is considering adding Oregon and Washington to its league. However, there are concerns about the economic aspects of such a move, as both programs would require additional revenue to cover travel expenses.
Meanwhile, the Pac-12 presented a media rights package centered around a streaming contract with Apple. While it includes incentives, the financial projections have been deemed lower compared to what the Big 12 schools stand to receive through their new media rights agreement with ESPN and Fox.
As the discussions unfold, it remains to be seen whether Arizona will indeed make the leap from the Pac-12 to the Big 12. But if the move happens, it would undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the college sports landscape.