Mountain West Conference Takes Significant Step for Stability

In a significant move that promises stability and growth, the Mountain West Conference (MWC) has secured signed commitments from its seven remaining member schools to remain in the league. This decisive step was taken on Thursday, as the conference sets its sights on further expansion.

Expanding Membership and Potential Candidates

Among the candidates for potential inclusion is Texas State, which could join the MWC as an all-sports member. Additionally, Northern Illinois is also being considered for football-only membership, according to sources close to the situation reported by ESPN's Pete Thamel.

Commitment and Financial Strategy

The commitment includes the institutions of Air Force, UNLV, New Mexico, Nevada, San José State, Wyoming, and Hawai'i. These schools have collectively agreed to a memorandum of understanding that solidifies their participation while executing a grant of media rights extending from 2026 to 2032. "Our immediate priority was solidifying the membership of the Mountain West. Now our focus turns to our collective future on behalf of our student-athletes," stated MWC Commissioner Gloria Nevarez. "This marks a historic moment for the Mountain West and provides much-needed stability as the landscape of intercollegiate athletics evolves rapidly. We are excited about our future and are executing our next steps in expanding the Mountain West."

Exit Fees and Financial Allocation

The conference also shed light on its financial strategy regarding the exit fees from five schools that have announced their departure to the Pac-12. Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, Utah State, and San Diego State will incur fees amounting to approximately $18 million each, although negotiations might lead to adjusted figures. Once the total is clarified, the distribution will be allocated with 24.5% to Air Force and UNLV, 11.5% to New Mexico, Nevada, San José State, and Wyoming, and 5% assigned to Hawai'i.

UNLV's Role and Financial Package

UNLV, which plays a pivotal role amid these changes, anticipates receiving a lump-sum payment from the Mountain West ranging from $10 million to $14 million in 2025, accompanied by smaller annual payments over the following six years, starting in 2026.

UNLV's Decision to Stay

UNLV's decision to stay in the Mountain West came after a prior commitment was disrupted by Utah State's move to the Pac-12. Reassessing their options, UNLV ultimately chose to remain in the MWC, primarily driven by the attractive financial package on the table. Athletic Director Erick Harper commented, "The league is a genuine brand and an established product. Increased revenues are vital for our ascent as an athletics department and provide us with the necessary flexibility to pursue our goal of joining a Power Four conference."

Challenges Ahead for Expansion

Despite the stabilizing commitments, the Mountain West faces the challenge of expanding its membership. Currently, with six full-time members and Hawai'i as a partial member, the conference is required to add two full-time football-playing schools by 2028 to meet NCAA regulations. Meanwhile, the Pac-12 currently operates with seven members and, likewise, will need to secure an additional school by the 2026 season.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Mountain West Conference

As the landscape of college athletics continues to shift dramatically, the Mountain West Conference's strategic decisions could pave the way for an exciting new chapter. Will the Mountain West ultimately succeed in fortifying its ranks? Only time will tell!