New Pac-12 commissioner George Kliavkoff says conference expansion isn’t necessary, but he’s considering it with “many schools” already reaching out.
With Texas and Oklahoma leaving the Big 12 for the SEC, the topic of conference realignment for other conferences has never been hotter.
When it comes to the Pac-12, new commissioner George Kliavkoff is playing coy about the possibility of expansion.
“We believe the move by Texas and Oklahoma from the Big 12 to the SEC strengthens our unique position as the only Power 5 conference with teams in the Mountain and Pacific time zones,” Kliavkoff said during remarks at Pac-12 Media Day. “We have a stable, highly successful, and well-positioned membership with a high bar to entry.
“Given our investments in football and men’s basketball, our historic domination of other sports, we do not think expansion is required to continue to compete and thrive. That said, the fallout from Texas and Oklahoma gives us an opportunity to once again consider expansion.”
The Pac-12 has received “significant inbound interest” on expansion
Kliavkoff acknowledged the Pac-12 has had “significant inbound interest from many schools” and the presidents and chancellors are currently evaluating options.
“We expect these decisions to take some time and we will not be sharing any further information today about ongoing expansion discussions,” Kliavkoff said.
The Pac-12 added Colorado and Utah to their number in 2010. The conference has also flirted with Texas as a potential addition over the years. The uncertainly around the Big 12 could leave the likes of TCU, Texas Tech, Oklahoma State and Baylor looking for a new home.
That’s not to say adding those schools from the southwest wouldn’t have some serious hurdles. The Pac-12 has traditionally prioritized academic standards and AAU membership when considering expansion.
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