The Pac-12 is in the process of rebuilding after being reduced to just two schools, Oregon State and Washington State, following the departure of other power conferences last year. The conference is now looking to add Boise State, Fresno State, San Diego State, and Colorado State from the Mountain West conference. According to insiders, these schools are close to being accepted as members, potentially joining the Pac-12 in 2026.
The potential new members were reported to be applying for Pac-12 membership by Yahoo! Sports. While the Pac-12 has been operating with only two schools due to NCAA rules allowing a two-year grace period, plans to expand have been in the works since last year’s restructuring.
Oregon State and Washington State are eager to rebuild, with agreements in place that may see the four new schools joining the Pac-12 after exit fees and penalties are resolved with the Mountain West conference. The Pac-12 will reportedly need to pay approximately $30 million per school for their departure from the Mountain West and has financial resources from various agreements to facilitate this transition.
Should the four Mountain West schools depart, the conference would be left with eight members. The Mountain West Commissioner acknowledged media reports of the potential departure and stated that all departing members must adhere to conference bylaws and policies. Discussions are ongoing, and the Pac-12 is prepared to navigate the process of expanding and integrating new members.
