Gonzaga to Depart WCC, Join Pac-12 Conference in 2026

Gonzaga is set to become the eighth university to join the current Pac-12 Conference.

The conference's board of directors and its five new member presidents unanimously voted to approve the Bulldogs. The decision was announced by Gonzaga on Tuesday and will go into effect at the start of the first semester and fall sports seasons in 2026.

Last month, the Pac-12 also added Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, and Utah State from the Mountain West Conference. These five schools, along with Gonzaga, will officially become members on July 1, 2026.

Pac-12 commissioner Teresa Gould expressed her excitement about welcoming Gonzaga into the conference, praising the university's leadership and commitment to student success. She also noted that this is a significant milestone for the Pac-12.

Gonzaga, along with the other five additions, will join Oregon State and Washington State as the only remaining schools in the conference after a recent exodus of 10 member institutions to other power conferences.

Known for its strong basketball program, Gonzaga has qualified for the NCAA Tournament every year since 1998-99. The Bulldogs have also made it to the Sweet 16 for the past nine seasons and were runners-up in the 2021 national championship game against Baylor.

Athletics director Chris Standiford expressed his excitement about joining a conference with a rich tradition and a commitment to innovation in the ever-changing landscape of collegiate athletics. He also thanked Commissioner Gould for her leadership during the discussions and for sharing the university's vision.

Gonzaga has been a member of the West Coast Conference since the 1989-90 season.