SDSU and a Conference Change
Photo by Eric Townsend
San Diego, California (PSF) - San Diego State University (SDSU) is currently facing uncertainty regarding its conference affiliation and potential conference upgrades. Previously, SDSU had expressed interest in joining either the Pac-12 or the Big 12 conferences due to factors such as its new stadium, successful football program, and recent achievement in the Final Four of the NCAA basketball tournament.
However, the Mountain West Conference (MWC), to which SDSU currently belongs, has responded to SDSU's intent to leave the conference by withholding the university's revenue distribution for this year as part of an exit fee. The MWC claims that SDSU is no longer a member of the conference as of July 1, 2024, while SDSU maintains that it still considers itself a member.
In terms of potential conference options, it appears that the Big 12 has shown little interest in adding SDSU to its conference, despite previous indications of interest. The Big 12's current focus for expansion reportedly revolves around the University of Connecticut (UConn) and potential Pac-12 schools that might become available once the Pac-12 secures a media rights deal to present to its membership.
SDSU continues to wait for potential conference opportunities, with the Pac-12 being seen as the best option for the university. However, the Pac-12's ability to make a move may be dependent on securing a media rights deal, as its current deal with ESPN and Fox is set to expire soon. There are concerns that the Pac-12's revenue and visibility may be impacted if there is limited interest from major linear broadcasters. The conference is reportedly confident in securing a deal that includes significant linear (broadcast/cable) presence, but the details remain unclear.
Given the uncertainty surrounding conference affiliations and potential media rights deals, SDSU finds itself in a difficult position. The university has expressed its desire to receive a full conference share wherever it goes, which would have been $31.7 million in the case of joining the Big 12. However, it remains to be seen what financial arrangements and options will be available to SDSU in the future.
SDSU's status and potential conference moves may be discussed at a meeting of MWC presidents scheduled for July 17. The outcome of this meeting and the subsequent developments may shed more light on SDSU's future conference affiliation and any potential legal battles or settlements that may arise.