UNLV has made the decision to remain in the Mountain West conference after carefully considering an invitation from the Pac-12. The news was confirmed by sources on Wednesday night, with an official announcement expected to follow on Thursday morning once all the necessary paperwork is signed by members of the conference.
Air Force is also reportedly planning to stay in the Mountain West, which means that both conferences will be left with seven members after five schools depart for the Pac-12 in 2026. While this falls one member short of the NCAA’s minimum requirement for conference recognition, the Mountain West is already strategizing to add new members once UNLV and Air Force’s decisions are finalized.
UNLV is believed to have accepted a significant retention package from the Mountain West, which includes a cash payment of up to $25 million and other concessions. The conference is expected to collect nearly $100 million in exit fees from the departing schools moving to the Pac-12. However, additional poaching fees are under dispute as the Pac-12 has filed a federal lawsuit against the Mountain West.
The decision for UNLV to remain in the Mountain West was not made lightly. Initially leaning towards staying in the conference, UNLV reconsidered its options after Utah State’s announcement to join the Pac-12. Previously, Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, and San Diego State had all declared their intentions to leave the Mountain West for the Pac-12.
The Pac-12 had originally aimed to expand its reach by adding schools like Memphis, Tulane, South Florida, and UTSA, but those schools ultimately decided to stay in the American Athletic Conference. This prompted the Pac-12 to shift its focus to UNLV and Utah State as potential additions to their conference lineup.
UNLV, along with the schools leaving for the Pac-12, would have been required to pay an exit fee of $18 million to $20 million to the Mountain West. Despite the loss of several prominent institutions, the Mountain West has assured UNLV that their current annual payouts of nearly $6 million per school should not decrease significantly once a new media rights deal is negotiated.
As the Pac-12 continues to restructure in preparation for 2026, the distribution of funds among member schools remains uncertain. With the need to fill at least one additional spot, the Pac-12 is now faced with the challenge of reshaping its conference lineup.
Founded in 1999, the Mountain West has remained relatively stable amidst recent rounds of realignment in college athletics. The departure of key schools to other conferences, such as the SEC and Big Ten, had a significant impact on the Pac-12. This reshuffling left Oregon State and Washington State as the lone members of the Pac-12, prompting the need for new additions.
By choosing to stay in the Mountain West, UNLV opted for short-term stability and the opportunity to maintain a level of influence within the conference. While joining the Pac-12 may have offered a more prestigious media rights deal and enhanced visibility, the terms negotiated with the Mountain West were too favorable for UNLV to turn down.
Athletic Director Erick Harper emphasized the importance of considering what is best for student-athletes, the university, and the Las Vegas community in making the decision to remain in the Mountain West. The retention of UNLV in the conference allows for financial stability, potentially aiding in the long-term retention of key coaching staff and the overall success of the athletic program.
Looking ahead, UNLV will have the opportunity to solidify its position within the Mountain West, potentially becoming a powerhouse in football and other major sports. While there may be challenges in terms of recruiting and marketing without the allure of high-profile conference matchups, there is also a chance for UNLV to establish itself as a dominant force within the conference.
With negotiations favoring UNLV in its decision to stay in the Mountain West, the school may have a favorable buyout provision should opportunities arise to join a power conference like the Big 12 in the future. The university’s strategic decision-making process reflects a focus on long-term sustainability and success for its athletic programs.
In conclusion, UNLV’s choice to remain in the Mountain West signifies a commitment to stability, financial security, and the opportunity to shape the future of its athletic programs. By leveraging negotiations with the conference, UNLV has positioned itself for potential growth and success in the years to come.
