As announced Thursday morning, Colorado State is among four Mountain West schools set to join the Pac-12 Conference in 2026.
Others moving with the Rams include Fresno State, San Diego State and Boise State. The Pac-12, which currently holds only Washington State and Oregon State, was thought to be nearing extinction, but this latest round of conference realignment should keep the 109-year-old league alive.
With six teams on board for 2026, the Pac-12 still needs to reach eight members to be recognized as a conference by the NCAA. I’d expect the Pac-12 to target two other Mountain West schools or possibly Gonzaga.
“These six institutions are committed to rebuilding the Pac-12 into an innovative, nimble, conference with sports programs which put student-athletes first, strive to compete at the highest level and deliver amazing fan experiences and compelling content,” CSU athletic director John Weber said in a press release. “This is a historic, transformative moment for CSU and a massive opportunity for our student-athletes. Joining the Pac-12 is an important step forward as we seek to deliver on an ambitious vision for the future of Ram Athletics.”
Colorado State has resided in the Mountain West since 1999. It was previously in the Western Athletic Conference from 1968-1998.
This news comes two days before Colorado State will host rival Colorado in the 93rd Rocky Mountain Showdown.
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