UNLV has decided to remain in the Mountain West conference rather than joining San Diego State in the Pac-12 when it expands in the 2026-27 academic year. This decision leaves the Pac-12 with seven potential members, one short of the minimum required for inclusion in the College Football Playoff. The Mountain West had offered financial incentives to UNLV and other schools to stay, with UNLV and Air Force initially agreeing to remain until Utah State broke ranks and joined the Pac-12. UNLV is expected to receive a new incentive package exceeding $25 million to remain in the Mountain West.
The Pac-12 is now left with fewer desirable expansion options after its targets in the American Athletic Conference rejected its advances. The possibility of adding schools like Texas State, New Mexico State, and UTEP is now on the table. Meanwhile, Gonzaga’s potential non-football membership in the conference is uncertain. UNLV’s decision comes as the school faces significant deficits in its athletic budget, with recent reports indicating a budget deficit of $20.6 million and projected deficits totaling an additional $27 million. The school revised its budget projections to break even, but questions remain regarding the reasons for the changes. If UNLV had joined the Pac-12, it would have faced an $18 million exit fee from the Mountain West. The conference realignment saga continues as the Mountain West awaits signed agreements from all remaining schools to solidify its lineup for the upcoming years.
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