Gonzaga University announced Wednesday that the Bulldogs will join the Pac-12 Conference, with all of the school's athletics programs participating in the conference.
Gonzaga enters the Pac-12 alongside Boise State University, Colorado State University, California State University, Fresno, Oregon State University, San Diego State University, Utah State University, and Washington State University.
The Pac-12 Conference received a formal application for membership from Gonzaga on September 30, 2024. The conference's Board of Directors and its five new member presidents voted unanimously to approve Gonzaga. The Bulldogs will join the conference effective July 1, 2026, with competition beginning for all conference sports sponsored by the university in the 2026-27 academic year.
"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 men's basketball is the only program in the country to appear in each of the last nine Sweet Sixteens, matching the longest streak since the NCAA Tournament expanded in 1985, as well as five Elite Eight appearances over the last nine NCAA Tournaments.
"This is a great day for Gonzaga University," said Gonzaga athletics director Chris Standiford. "We are excited to join a conference with great tradition and a commitment to innovating during this evolving time in collegiate athletics. I'd like to thank Commissioner Teresa Gould for her leadership as these talks progressed earnestly over the weekend, our alignment became evident and our vision shared."
