Pac-12 considers UNLV and UTSA for expansion plans

The Pac-12 Conference is actively seeking to expand its membership as it faces challenges to its existence. Recent reports indicate that the conference has already recruited teams from the Mountain West, including Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, and San Diego State. Now, the Pac-12 is looking towards the American Athletic Conference (AAC) for potential additions, with Memphis and Tulane identified as primary targets. Other schools under consideration include UTSA, North Texas, South Florida, and Texas State, with the latter being the only representative from the Sun Belt Conference. In addition to AAC schools, the Pac-12 may also explore further options from the Mountain West, particularly UNLV and Air Force, should their attempts to recruit eastern teams prove unsuccessful. The AAC is reportedly interested in adding Air Force to join Army and Navy, which could complicate the Pac-12's expansion efforts. The urgency of these moves is underscored by the conference's need to secure eight members by July 1, 2026, to maintain its NCAA recognition. While the focus has primarily been on football, there is speculation about the potential inclusion of Gonzaga as a basketball-only member. This consideration arises from the desire to strengthen the conference's basketball profile, despite the current emphasis on football. Oregon State's athletic director has stated that football membership is essential, but there are indications that this requirement may evolve in the future. Overall, the Pac-12's expansion strategy reflects its need to adapt to a rapidly changing collegiate sports landscape, driven by lucrative media rights deals and the shifting dynamics of conference affiliations.