Colorado becomes the league's first new member since 1978.
"This is an historic moment for the Conference, as the Pac-10 is poised for tremendous growth. The University of Colorado is a great fit for the conference both academically and athletically and we are incredibly excited to welcome Colorado to the Pac-10," said league commissioner Larry Scott in the league's statement.
Added Colorado president Bruce D. Benson:
"The University of Colorado is a perfect match - academically and athletically - with the Pac-10 our achievements and aspirations match those of the universities in the conference and we look forward to a productive relationship."
Scott and Benson will take part in a teleconference with media members Thursday at 1:30 ET to discuss the move and will hold a press conference in Boulder, Colo., on Friday.
Colorado's addition gives the Pac-10 a total of 11 schools, but speculation persists that the league will also look to bring in Texas, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Texas Tech to give the conference 16 teams.
Big 12 commissioner Dan Beebe issued a statement in reaction to Colorado's decision.
"The Big 12 Conference has been informed that the University of Colorado has accepted an invitation to join the Pacific-10 Conference. I continue to work through the process that was agreed upon last week by our Board of Directors to address membership issues, and are working tirelessly towards the long-term viability of the Big 12. "
This news comes just shortly after reports surfaced of Nebraska planning to accept an invitation to the Big Ten, which the school's regents are scheduled to vote -- and likely announced publicly -- on Friday.
If by chance Nebraska's move to the Big Ten does not occur and the Corn huskers remain in the Big 12 and that league remains intact, the San Jose Mercury News reports that the Pac-10 would then invite Utah to become the league's 12th team.
No comments:
Post a Comment