The Pac-12 is set to begin its rebuilding process by targeting schools from the Mountain West conference, specifically Boise State, Fresno State, Colorado State, and San Diego State. Sources close to the situation revealed that these schools have applied for membership and discussions are underway, though not yet public.
After being reduced to just two schools, Oregon State and Washington State, the Pac-12 is determined to regain its strength and competitiveness. The conference was significantly weakened last year when other power conferences poached its members. NCAA rules allow for a conference to operate with only two schools for two years.
Leaders at Oregon State and Washington State have expressed their commitment to rebuilding the conference, which includes bringing in new members from the Mountain West. The process is expected to kick off shortly after the two schools failed to renew a football scheduling agreement with the Mountain West for the 2025 season.
Any new Pac-12 members would not join until 2026 and the conference would be required to pay hefty exit fees and penalties to the Mountain West, totaling close to $30 million per school. The rebuilding efforts are a priority for the Pac-12, as they aim to strengthen their position in the college sports landscape.
The information was revealed by a report from the Associated Press, written by writer Russo.
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