PROVO, Utah — Brigham Young University is set to officially join the Big 12 Conference.
The Big 12 Conference Board of Directors this morning voted to extend membership invitations to BYU, the University of Central Florida, the University of Cincinnati, and the University of Houston.
In a statement, BYU announced they have accepted the invitation to join the Big 12 Conference.
“This is a historic day for BYU Athletics – and for the entire university,” said Kevin J Worthen, BYU president. “The BYU mission statement indicates that BYU is a place where ‘a commitment to excellence is expected.’ We strive to meet that requirement in all we do, including our core academic enterprise. Membership in the Big 12 gives us the opportunity to reinforce that commitment for student-athletes, allowing them to compete at the highest level both on and off the field.”
The decision came after a yes vote of a supermajority of Directors, and was approved unanimously by the eight continuing members.
The Cougars will participate in every sport sponsored by the Big 12 except equestrian, rowing and wrestling.
All sports will begin Big 12 schedules in the 2023-24 athletic season, except for men’s volleyball, which will continue to compete in the MPSF.
The Big 12 will also allow BYU to honor its commitment to not compete on Sundays.
