Yesterday, the University of Colorado’s Board of Regents unanimously voted to leave the Pac-12 Conference and return to the Big 12 beginning in the 2024-25 season. The Buffs competed in the Big 12 from 1996 to 2010, becoming the first Power 5 team to leave a conference and return on their own accord, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Colorado will join the newest version of the Big 12, which includes transfer teams BYU, Central Florida, Cincinnati, and Houston—all of which will begin vying for a conference title this season.
“We are thrilled to welcome the University of Colorado’s return to the Big 12 Conference and our new family of universities,” Baylor President Linda Livingstone said. “Colorado is an iconic brand in college athletics and academically is one of 35 U.S. public research institutions belonging to the prestigious Association of American Universities. The Denver area provides the Big 12 with a solid presence within the Rocky Mountain region that extends across the U.S. to the shores of Florida. The Baylor Family looks forward to road trips to Boulder and strengthening our ties in the state of Colorado.”
Vice President and Director of Athletics Mack Rhoades added, “The trajectory of the Big 12 Conference and its national brand has been bolstered yet again with the welcomed addition of the University of Colorado. The Denver area is a thriving media market, and their addition boldly expands the significance and footprint of the Big 12. Baylor fans will fondly recall some of the Bears’ most memorable Big 12 moments in Boulder. From historic match-ups and storied success to exceptional university and athletic department leadership, the future is bright. The Big 12 brand has never been stronger, and we look forward to welcoming the Buffs back to Waco for Big 12 competition.”
