Mon Sep 23 20:45:48 UTC 2024: ## Pac-12 in Talks with Gonzaga, Eyes Mountain West Schools in Rebuilding Effort
**Los Angeles, CA -** The Pac-12 conference is actively pursuing a future with Gonzaga, a basketball powerhouse, as it continues to rebuild its membership ahead of a 2026 relaunch. While reports initially suggested a deal was in place, further reports confirmed that negotiations are still ongoing.
In addition to Gonzaga, the Pac-12 is targeting UNLV and Utah State from the Mountain West Conference. Utah State is reportedly expected to accept the Pac-12’s offer.
These moves come after the Pac-12’s initial efforts to add schools from the American Athletic Conference were met with a rejection. In a statement, the AAC schools affirmed their commitment to the conference, acknowledging interest from other conferences but stating their belief in the future of the AAC.
The Pac-12, which lost several members in a dramatic realignment wave, needs to secure at least two more members in all sports to qualify for NCAA championships and the College Football Playoff in 2026. Gonzaga, lacking a football program, would only add value in basketball.
The conference has already added Boise State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Colorado State, Washington State, and Oregon State to its roster, bringing the total number of members to eight.
The Pac-12’s ongoing negotiations and pursuit of new members highlight the ongoing landscape of college athletics and the conference’s commitment to building a strong future.
First Piper 