College basketball powerhouse Gonzaga is set to join the newly restructured Pac-12 Conference, as announced by the institution on Tuesday.
Gonzaga will transition from the West Coast Conference, where it has enjoyed remarkable success over the past 25 years, into a league that is focusing on football but also has a strong basketball presence. The Bulldogs will become the eighth member of the Pac-12, joining existing members Washington State and Oregon State, along with newcomers Boise State, San Diego State, Fresno State, Utah State, and Colorado State.
Despite Gonzaga’s addition, the Pac-12 still seeks another football-playing member to meet College Football Playoff (CFP) requirements, as Gonzaga does not field a football team.
Last season, Gonzaga, along with Washington State, Boise State, San Diego State, Colorado State, and Utah State, all participated in the NCAA Tournament. Notably, two seasons ago, San Diego State made it to the national championship game.
To prepare for its relaunch in 2026, the Pac-12 has been actively recruiting, recently adding five schools from the Mountain West to bolster its roster, leaving only Washington State and Oregon State from the original conference after significant realignment this summer.
Gonzaga’s athletic director, Chris Standiford, revealed that discussions with the Pac-12 gained momentum over the weekend, leading to a formal application for membership on Monday night, which received unanimous approval.
“We are thrilled to join a conference with a rich history and a commitment to innovation during this evolving time in collegiate athletics,” Standiford stated.
The Gonzaga Bulldogs have excelled in the West Coast Conference, making an appearance in the NCAA Tournament every year since 1998, achieving two Final Four berths and securing at least 30 wins in eight different seasons.
Previously, Gonzaga explored affiliations with the Big East and had discussions with the Big 12 about joining its strong men’s basketball lineup, similar to UConn’s recent addition.
Moreover, Gonzaga has also established itself as a formidable force in women’s basketball, consistently qualifying for tournaments and showcasing a well-rounded athletic program.
