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Gonzaga officially added to ‘New Era Pac-12,’ conference announces
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Gonzaga is officially joining the Pac-12, giving the league a prominent basketball program to work with as it continues to re-shape its future.
According to a Tuesday press release, the Pac-12 referred to Gonzaga as a basketball powerhouse that can amplify “the overall athletic and football prowess of the New Era Pac-12.” Currently a member of the West Coast Conference, Gonzaga will officially enter the Pac-12 in July 2026.
https://twitter.com/pac12/status/1841131125135319407
Gonzaga joins the Pac-12 on the heels of Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State and Utah State joining the league as all-sports inclusions. However, the Bulldogs are an interesting addition without a football program in place.
The Pac-12 will still need further additions to be recognized as an official FBS program, but the league recognized Gonzaga’s “iconic basketball program” as a prominent addition.
“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.”
Gonzaga head coach Mark Few built the Bulldogs into a national power and the dominant force in the WCC over his years with the program. Gonzaga has reached 9 straight Sweet Sixteens with 5 Elite Eight appearances in that span with an 83.4%winning percentage as a head coach.
Oregon State and Washington State remain the operating members of the Pac-12 in this time period, and the press release confirms the collective 8 programs (made up of the 6 newcomers) “will collaboratively chart additional membership and other future conference considerations.”
Paul Harvey lives in Atlanta and covers SEC football.
