In a sudden turn of events, the Pac-12 conference formally announced the addition of four former Mountain West programs on Thursday morning.
Boise State, Fresno State, San Diego State, and Colorado State will all officially join Oregon State and Washington State in the Pac-12, bringing the league up to six teams starting in the 2026 academic year. The moves will cost the Pac-12 roughly $43 million in fees, but the conference chose to rebuild the Pac-12 brand rather than merge with the entire Mountain West.
However, in order to reach the NCAA minimum of eight members, the Pac-12 still has to find at least two more programs by July 1, 2026. The conference could have spots earmarked for both Stanford and Cal, who along with SMU joined the ACC this season but could look to get back to the Pac-12 if they can find a way out of their deal.
If that doesn’t come together, the conference could look at programs in the AAC, or go back for more from the Mountain West, or even look at potential football or basketball only additions.
Below is a look at the top ten options for the Pac-12 to get from six to eight before the 2026 deadline.