Sealing the Deal: Arizona’s Move
Arizona is reportedly in advanced negotiations to leave the Pac-12 and join the Big 12, according to insider sources. The move, expected to be finalized soon, marks a significant shift in collegiate sports and potentially reshapes the future of the Pac-12 conference.
The final steps of the process are underway, with the move laid out in detail during an Arizona board of regents meeting on Thursday evening. Big 12 presidents and CEOs also convened to vote on approving the move, further affirming the imminence of the transition.
Unless an unforeseen twist occurs during the regents’ deliberation, Arizona’s transfer is anticipated to be officially announced soon. If completed, Arizona’s move would be the second Pac-12 school within a week to declare its departure for the Big 12, following Colorado’s recent announcement.
Ripple Effects: The Impact on Pac-12 and Beyond
This impending transfer would leave the Pac-12 with only eight schools. Interestingly, this news emerges simultaneously with reports of the Big Ten’s presidents and chancellors green-lighting Commissioner Tony Petitti to explore the inclusion of Oregon and Washington from the Pac-12 into their fold.
Arizona’s departure is viewed as a significant turning point for the Pac-12’s future, which had recently proposed a streaming-based deal with tech giant Apple. It seems this proposal has not been enough to hold the conference together, as Arizona moves closer to sealing a deal with the Big 12. The impact of Arizona’s shift on this proposed deal remains unclear.
The Corner Schools Dilemma: Arizona State and Utah’s Uncertain Future
As Arizona moves on, attention turns towards the remaining Pac-12 members Arizona State and Utah. The future of these two “Corner Schools” is uncertain, as they decide their next steps amid the flurry of recent developments.
Arizona State President Michael Crow, known for his staunch support for the Pac-12 and long-time advocacy for former commissioner Larry Scott, might now be pushed to reconsider his loyalties as the Pac-12 risks reducing to a mere eight schools. Utah, while traditionally cautious in its approach to realignment, appears to be more open to discussions with the Big 12.
Decisions regarding Arizona State’s future will likely become clearer following the Arizona board of regents meeting. Despite no public discussion expected, there’s a common sentiment among the board members that Arizona and Arizona State should ideally remain together.
As Arizona’s move to the Big 12 is being finalized, the Big Ten is also eyeing the potential addition of Oregon and Washington to its conference. The chances of this becoming a reality seem to be increasing with each Pac-12 defection. However, certain resistance within the Big Ten and uncertainty regarding financial aspects need to be addressed before these moves can be confirmed.