In the ever-shifting landscape of college sports, realignments have become almost as common as game-winning shots and touchdown passes. With some of the most prominent universities like Nebraska, Texas, Texas A&M, and UCLA making conference changes over the past 15 years, it’s clear that strategic moves are the name of the game. Just last year, we witnessed Florida State and Clemson jump from the ACC to the powerhouse SEC, while Oregon State and Washington State found new homes in the Mountain West as the Pac-12 faced its dramatic collapse. SMU also made a strategic leap from the AAC to the ACC, stepping in to fill the gaps left by departing schools.
Now, the buzz from ESPN suggests that Texas State, Louisiana Tech, and Memphis might be suiting up for conference realignment. Eyes are especially on Texas State, which is on the brink of joining the Pac-12 from the Sun Belt Conference. A formal invite is rumored to be just around the corner, expected by July 21. This potential move marks a significant win for the Pac-12, a conference looking to bolster its ranks. Texas State had previously turned down the Mountain West’s advances, setting the stage for what could be one of the most strategic acquisitions for the Pac-12 in recent memory.
Meanwhile, in another intriguing development, Louisiana State is a hot candidate to fill the potential void in the Sun Belt left by Texas State’s departure, with Western Kentucky also in the mix.
The University of Memphis, the largest of these institutions, is reportedly deep in talks for a potential jump to the Pac-12. While such a move could elevate Memphis’ visibility and competitiveness, it’s not without roadblocks. Financial considerations and previous travel logistics have delayed any imminent switch, likely pushing the timeline to 2027.
Memphis would undeniably be a big catch for any conference, with a basketball program that routinely makes waves in the NCAA Tournament and a pipeline of NBA talent that includes household names like Derrick Rose, Jalen Duren, James Wiseman, and Emoni Bates. Beyond athletics, Memphis stands out academically and benefits from a robust presence in the AAC, which offers more visibility compared to its counterparts, Texas State and Louisiana Tech.
It’s a dynamic time in college sports, where athletic departments are strategically navigating their future – a dance as intricate as any playbook strategy. Keep a keen eye on these developments; they have the potential to reshape the competitive landscape in ways that echo through the corridors of college sports history.
