Memphis proposes $200 million to join Big 12 conference

Memphis aims to entice the Big 12 with a substantial financial offer amid mixed support.

Memphis proposes $200 million to join Big 12 conference

Memphis has made headlines by offering $200 million to the Big 12 for membership, according to a report by Yahoo Sports' Ross Dellenger. The proposal is considered one of the most ambitious membership offers in college athletics, including significant sponsorship commitments from corporate partners. Memphis President Bill Hardgrave has aggressively pursued this opportunity by meeting with various Big 12 officials over the past 14 months. Despite the large financial incentive, the proposal faces challenges, as it lacks the backing of a majority of Big 12 schools. To expand, a super majority is required. Previous expansion efforts from teams like Gonzaga and UConn failed to secure adequate support as well. Memphis, currently in the American Conference, is pushing hard to elevate its status to a Power Four conference's member, especially after other schools like SMU have attempted similar moves without initial revenue sharing. An exit fee of at least $25 million awaits Memphis if they leave their current conference, but officials believe their substantial offer may lend them an advantage in discussions with the Big 12.

The $200 million offer from Memphis represents a bold strategy in a landscape dominated by financial negotiations. Memphis' commitment to forgo revenue sharing for five years is particularly striking, showing a willingness to invest heavily in their future within a more prestigious conference. However, without a broad consensus within the Big 12, the proposal risks stagnation. The reluctance from Big 12 officials to integrate Memphis in previous discussions raises questions about their long-term vision and willingness to embrace new teams. As universities seek to enhance their competitiveness, the landscape of college athletics is shifting toward significant financial maneuvers, and Memphis is attempting to position itself at the forefront of this trend despite facing skepticism.

Highlights

As the dynamics of conference alignments evolve, Memphis' fate remains uncertain but indicative of larger trends in college athletics.