Exciting News: Texas State Joins the Pac-12 Ahead of 2026 Relaunch!

Texas State University is officially joining the Pac-12, marking a significant moment in college sports. This announcement comes as part of the Pac-12’s strategy to strengthen its position ahead of a relaunch planned for 2026.

Commissioner Teresa Gould expressed her excitement, calling Texas State a "foundational member" of the new league. She emphasized that this is a fresh beginning in college athletics, with a focus on supporting student-athletes.

To make this move, Texas State’s board approved a $5 million buyout from the Sun Belt Conference. The Bobcats will remain in the Sun Belt until the 2025-26 season, officially joining the Pac-12 in 2026-27.

This transition is crucial for the Pac-12, which needed at least eight football-playing schools to stay classified as an FBS conference. Texas State will join other schools, including Boise State and Utah State, as they reshape the league.

Texas State President Kelly Damphousse called the announcement "historic." He believes that joining the Pac-12 showcases the university’s growing reputation and commitment to excellence. Athletic Director Don Coryell echoed this sentiment, describing it as "a new era" for Texas State.

Alongside this development, the Pac-12 recently secured a five-year media deal with CBS, further boosting the conference’s visibility. The deal covers major football and basketball games, signaling a promising future for the league.

Texas State’s campus in San Marcos is just 35 miles from the University of Texas at Austin, and the university boasts a large student body of over 40,000. This size and location could enhance the Pac-12’s reach and impact in the competitive landscape of college sports.

In today’s digital age, fans are sharing their reactions on social media. Many express excitement about the potential for enhanced rivalry and competition in upcoming seasons. This shift reflects not only Texas State’s ambitions but also a broader trend in college athletics where conferences are reshaping to adapt to new challenges.

As colleges and conferences evolve, the focus remains on creating opportunities for student-athletes while maximizing exposure and engagement for fans. This Texas State-Pac-12 partnership could be a significant step in that direction. For more on the Pac-12’s changes and media rights, check out the relevant details from ESPN.

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