New Pac-12

Gonzaga: The Basketball Anomaly

One intriguing, and arguably surprising, addition to this new lineup is Gonzaga. All the other new members boast Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) football programs, but Gonzaga does not. This is a significant departure from the traditional power conference model, where football, basketball, and baseball are considered the major sports, with football often being the primary revenue driver and a prerequisite for "major conference" status.

Gonzaga's inclusion speaks volumes about the sheer strength and national appeal of its men's basketball program. Their consistent success and deep NCAA Tournament runs have clearly outweighed the lack of a football team. It also raises an interesting question: Will Gonzaga ever consider relaunching its football program? They did have a team back in the 1940s, but the significant investment required to restart an FBS program makes it seem unlikely, despite this new conference alignment. Their move appears to be a strategic play to secure a more stable and high-profile basketball future.

Who Else Might Join the Party

Beyond the confirmed members, speculation abounds about further expansion for the nascent Pac-12. Texas State is a name that has gained considerable traction. The school's recent emergence in various sports and its potential for continued growth make it an attractive candidate, offering the conference a foothold in the fertile recruiting grounds of Texas.

From a geographical, market, and revenue perspective, UNLV and the University of Nevada, Reno, also make a lot of sense. They are established FBS programs in key Western markets. However, reports of both schools grappling with athletic department expenses exceeding revenues could be a hurdle. While financial stability is paramount for conferences looking to expand, it's unclear if these reported issues would definitively deter the Pac-12 from targeting them.

And then there are the "just a thought" candidates, primarily considered for their geographical proximity:

• Grand Canyon University (GCU): Located in a major Arizona market, but like Gonzaga, they lack a football program. Their strong basketball program might make them a long-shot consideration, but adding another non-football school would be a bold move.

• University of New Mexico and New Mexico State: These schools offer a presence in the Southwest and both have football programs.

• Portland State and University of Portland: Situated in the Pacific Northwest, they offer regional ties to Oregon State and Washington State. However, Portland State is an FCS football program, and the University of Portland does not have football.

• Wyoming: A consistent Mountain West program with a football team, fitting the profile of the other new additions.

What do You All Think

The realignment of the Pac-12 is just a microcosm of the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics, driven by media rights, revenue, and competitive standing. What are your thoughts on the new Pac-12's composition? Which schools do you think should be next on their expansion list, and why? Share this on social with your insights!