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Gonzaga set to join Pac-12 as conference’s focus shifts to basketball

The Bulldogs will join the conference effective July 1, 2026, with competition beginning for all conference sports in the 2026-27 academic year.

SPOKANE, Wash — It is official! Gonzaga University is set to join the new-look Pac-12 Conference.

In a press release, the Pac-12 said they received a formal application from Gonzaga on September 30. The conference’s Board of Directors and its five new member presidents voted unanimously to approve Gonzaga.

The Bulldogs will join the conference effective July 1, 2026, with competition beginning for all conference sports in the 2026-27 academic year.

“We are delighted to welcome Gonzaga into the Pac-12 as they embark with us on this incredible path ahead," remarked Commissioner Teresa Gould. “President McCulloh and Athletics Director Chris Standiford not only bring strategic expertise and forward thinking to the conference, but they are two incredible leaders who care deeply about student success and fortifying student-athlete academic and athletic experiences. Today represents an exciting milestone for the Pac-12 as we welcome another outstanding institution with a rich history of success into our league.”

“This is a great day for Gonzaga University,” said Gonzaga Athletics Director Chris Standiford. “We are excited to join a conference with great tradition and a commitment to innovating during this evolving time in collegiate athletics. I’d like to thank Commissioner Teresa Gould for her leadership as these talks progressed earnestly over the weekend, our alignment became evident and our vision shared.”

The university is expected to hold a press conference at 3 p.m. on Tuesday to discuss the move to the Pac-12. 

Last year, Washington State, Boise State, San Diego State, Colorado State, Utah State and Gonzaga all reached the NCAA Tournament in men’s basketball and two seasons ago San Diego State reached the national championship game.

The conference still needs to add one more football school to reach the eight-member minimum to qualify as an official FBS conference.

In the last two weeks the conference has added Gonzaga, San Diego State, Fresno State, Colorado State, Utah State and Boise State.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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