Pac-12 Conference
The Pac-12 Conference is an American collegiate athletic conference whose member universities compete in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I, primarily in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) for football, and is historically known as the "Conference of Champions" for accumulating 514 NCAA team championships across its institutions as of 2024.[1] Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area and led by Commissioner Teresa Gould since March 2024, the conference sponsors 19 sports (8 for men and 11 for women), including prominent programs in football, basketball, and track and field, while emphasizing academic excellence among its research-focused public and private universities.[2][3] Originally founded on December 2, 1915, as the Pacific Coast Conference (PCC) with four charter members— the University of California, Berkeley; the University of Washington; the University of Oregon; and Oregon Agricultural College (now Oregon State University)—the league expanded rapidly in its early years to include Washington State College (1917), Stanford University (1918), the University of Southern California (USC) and the University of Idaho (1922), the University of Montana (1924), and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (1928), reaching 10 members by the late 1920s.[1] The PCC dissolved in 1959 amid disputes over television revenue and athletic subsidies, leading to the formation of the Athletic Association of Western Universities (AAWU) with five schools: California, Stanford, USC, UCLA, and Washington; this entity rebranded as the Pacific-8 Conference in 1968 upon adding Oregon and Oregon State, then as the Pacific-10 in 1978 with the inclusion of Arizona and Arizona State.[1] Further expansion occurred in 2011 when the conference adopted its current Pac-12 name after adding the University of Colorado and the University of Utah, solidifying its status as one of the NCAA's premier "Power Five" conferences with a focus on West Coast rivalries and national prominence in multiple sports.[1] The conference's golden era featured landmark achievements, including the launch of the Pac-12 Networks in 2012 to broadcast its events and the production of numerous national champions, such as UCLA's seven consecutive men's basketball titles from 1967 to 1973 under coach John Wooden and USC's multiple football Heisman Trophy winners.[1] However, the 2020s brought existential challenges due to media rights disputes and conference realignment, culminating in 2024 when 10 of its 12 members departed—Oregon, UCLA, USC, and Washington to the Big Ten; Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah to the Big 12; and Oregon State and Washington State remaining as the sole holdovers under a two-year NCAA grace period—leaving the Pac-12 to operate as a two-team entity for the 2024–25 and 2025–26 academic years while sponsoring limited sports like football, baseball, and track and field.[4] In response, the conference has rebuilt aggressively, announcing in September 2024 the addition of four Mountain West schools—Boise State University, Colorado State University, Fresno State, and San Diego State—effective July 1, 2026, followed by Utah State University and Gonzaga University (initially for non-football sports) later that year, and Texas State University in June 2025, positioning the Pac-12 for an eight-team football lineup by the 2026–27 season with expanded media deals, including a renewal with The CW through 2030–31, partnerships with CBS and ESPN for 2025 coverage, and a five-year partnership with USA Sports beginning in 2026–27 to broadcast football and basketball games.[5][6][7][8] This resurgence aims to restore the conference's competitive and academic legacy while navigating ongoing litigation with the Mountain West Conference over expansion fees and poaching claims.[9]History
Origins as Pacific Coast Conference
The Pacific Coast Conference (PCC) was established on December 2, 1915, during a meeting at the Imperial Hotel in Portland, Oregon, marking the formal organization of intercollegiate athletics among West Coast universities.[1][10] The conference's creation addressed the growing need for structured competition and eligibility standards in an era when informal rivalries dominated college sports, aiming to promote fair play, academic integrity, and regional athletic development.[1] Its four charter members were the University of California (now UC Berkeley), the University of Washington, the University of Oregon, and Oregon Agricultural College (now Oregon State University).[1][10] Conference play officially commenced in 1916, initially focusing on track and field as the primary competitive sport, with the first formal PCC track meet held in 1919.[11][1] Early activities emphasized football and basketball alongside track, fostering intense regional rivalries that would define West Coast athletics for decades.[1] In 1917, Washington State College (now Washington State University) became the first addition, followed by Stanford University in 1918, expanding the league to six members and solidifying its presence across the Pacific Northwest and Northern California.[1][12] The PCC's foundational years were shaped by a commitment to amateurism and institutional control, with member schools adopting uniform rules on player eligibility, recruiting, and subsidies to prevent scandals common in Eastern conferences.[1] By the early 1920s, the conference had grown to eight teams with the inclusion of the University of Southern California (USC) and the University of Idaho in 1922, the University of Montana in 1924, and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 1928, reaching 10 members by the late 1920s and reflecting increasing interest from Southern California institutions and broader geographic reach.[1] This period laid the groundwork for the PCC's reputation as a powerhouse in football, where teams like California and Washington achieved national prominence, including Cal's undefeated 1920 season.[1] The conference's emphasis on competitive balance and academic standards distinguished it as a model for regional athletic alliances.[10]Formation of AAWU and early expansions
The dissolution of the Pacific Coast Conference (PCC) in 1959 stemmed from a series of scandals involving improper athlete subsidies, regional divisions between California and Northwest institutions, and disputes over punitive measures imposed on member schools.[13][14] These issues, exacerbated by financial strains and a 1957 antitrust lawsuit from the University of Washington against the PCC, led to the conference's formal end on June 30, 1959.[15][16] In response, the core PCC members—California, Stanford, UCLA, USC, and Washington—established the Athletic Association of Western Universities (AAWU) on July 1, 1959, as a more streamlined and professionally managed entity to preserve competitive balance in the West.[1][17] Retired U.S. Navy Admiral Thomas J. Hamilton was appointed as the inaugural commissioner, bringing administrative expertise to address the PCC's governance shortcomings.[15][1] The AAWU initially operated as the "Big Five," focusing on football, basketball, and other major sports while emphasizing academic standards and equitable revenue sharing among its charter institutions.[17] Early expansions began in 1962 when Washington State University joined, expanding the conference to six members and strengthening ties among Pacific Northwest schools.[1][10] This addition addressed competitive needs in football and basketball, where Washington State had competed as an independent following the PCC's collapse.[18] In 1964, the University of Oregon and Oregon State University were admitted, restoring the full complement of former PCC Northwest members and bringing the AAWU to eight institutions.[1][10] These expansions, guided by Hamilton's leadership, solidified the conference's regional footprint and set the stage for its rebranding as the Pacific-8 in 1968.[17]Transition to Pac-8 and Pac-10
Following the dissolution of the Pacific Coast Conference (PCC) in 1959 due to financial and eligibility scandals, the core remaining institutions—University of California, Berkeley (Cal), Stanford University, University of Southern California (USC), University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and University of Washington—established the Athletic Association of Western Universities (AAWU) as a successor organization.[1] This new entity, led by Commissioner Thomas J. Hamilton, focused on stabilizing intercollegiate athletics in the region while adhering to stricter governance standards to avoid the PCC's pitfalls.[1] The AAWU began expanding shortly after its formation to bolster its competitive balance and geographic reach. In 1962, Washington State University joined as the sixth member, followed by the University of Oregon and Oregon State University in 1964, restoring the latter two schools' conference affiliations after their earlier departure from the PCC.[1] With eight institutions now united under a shared athletic framework, the conference formally adopted the name Pacific-8 Conference (Pac-8) in 1968, reflecting its Pacific Coast identity and membership size.[1] This rebranding under Hamilton's leadership marked a period of consolidation, emphasizing round-robin scheduling in major sports like football and basketball while negotiating key media and bowl game contracts, such as the longstanding Rose Bowl tie-in.[1] By the mid-1970s, the Pac-8 sought further growth to enhance television revenue and national visibility, particularly in football. Discussions for expansion gained momentum in 1976, spearheaded by USC President John Hubbard, who viewed the addition of larger-market schools as essential for boosting gate receipts and broadcast deals.[19] The University of Arizona (UA), under President John P. Schaefer, aggressively lobbied for inclusion, motivated by desires for academic prestige among elite research institutions and improved athletic competition.[20] Arizona State University (ASU), however, initially resisted the overtures, preferring the stability of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) and its access to the Fiesta Bowl; ASU football coach Frank Kush famously remarked that the Pac-8 "need us more than we need them."[20] Despite internal opposition from Pac-8 members like Stanford and Washington over concerns about revenue sharing and travel costs, a pivotal meeting on December 13, 1976, at the St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco resulted in unanimous approval for expansion.[19] Hubbard's threat of USC potentially withdrawing clinched the vote, addressing financial disputes through adjusted gate receipt distributions.[19] UA and ASU officially joined on July 1, 1978, transforming the league into the Pacific-10 Conference (Pac-10) and departing the WAC, which prompted its own realignments.[1] This move not only expanded the conference's footprint into the Southwest but also positioned it for greater media prominence in the evolving landscape of college athletics.[20]Expansion to Pac-12 and golden era
The Pac-10 Conference underwent its most significant expansion in over three decades on July 1, 2011, when it officially welcomed the University of Colorado from the Big 12 Conference and the University of Utah from the Mountain West Conference, rebranding as the Pac-12 Conference. Colorado had accepted its invitation on June 11, 2010, followed by Utah on June 17, 2010, marking the first addition of full members since Arizona and Arizona State joined in 1978. This move increased the conference's footprint across the western United States, enhancing geographic balance and competitive depth, particularly in football, where both newcomers brought established programs—Utah with a perfect 13-0 record in 2008 and Colorado with a national championship in 1990.[1][21][22] The expansion enabled the introduction of the Pac-12 Football Championship Game in 2011, pitting the North and South Division winners against each other for the first time, a format that boosted national visibility and revenue through a new 12-year, $3 billion media rights deal with ESPN and Fox that same year. Oregon defeated UCLA 49-31 in the inaugural game at AT&T Stadium, securing the Ducks' spot in the 2012 Rose Bowl, where they triumphed 45-38 over Wisconsin in a high-scoring affair that exemplified the conference's emerging emphasis on explosive offenses. This period also saw immediate integration success for the new members, with Utah finishing 8-5 in its debut Pac-12 season and Colorado posting a 3-9 record while adapting to the increased competition.[23][24][25] The 2010s solidified the Pac-12's status as a golden era of athletic prominence, particularly in football, where the conference produced multiple College Football Playoff participants and dominated the Rose Bowl with eight appearances from the 2012 to 2020 games, securing six victories—including Stanford's 20-14 win over Wisconsin in 2013, Oregon's 59-20 rout of Florida State in 2015, USC's 52-24 win against Penn State in 2017, and Oregon's 28-27 comeback over Wisconsin in 2020. Oregon reached the first College Football Playoff National Championship in 2015 (representing the 2014 season), falling 42-20 to Ohio State after a 13-1 campaign; Washington advanced to the 2017 Peach Bowl semifinal (2016 season) but lost 24-7 to Alabama. For the 2019 season, Oregon advanced to the Rose Bowl, defeating Wisconsin 28-27, while Utah lost 30-34 to Texas in the Alamo Bowl. No Pac-12 team made the playoff that year. Beyond football, the conference's "Conference of Champions" moniker was reinforced by 114 NCAA team titles across all sports from 2011 to 2020, including Stanford women's basketball's consistent Final Four runs and UCLA softball's 2019 national championship.[26][27][1] This era highlighted the Pac-12's depth and innovation, with programs like Oregon and Stanford leading a surge in NFL draft picks—over 100 from 2011 to 2020—fueled by spread offenses and player development under coaches such as Chip Kelly, David Shaw, and Kyle Whittingham. In men's basketball, Arizona and UCLA combined for multiple Pac-12 Tournament titles and deep NCAA Tournament runs, such as Arizona's 2015 Elite Eight appearance and Oregon's 2017 Final Four berth, though no national championships were captured. The period's success extended to Olympic sports, where Pac-12 institutions claimed dozens of individual and team titles, underscoring the conference's balanced excellence before challenges emerged in the early 2020s.[28][1]Realignment crisis and near-collapse
The Pac-12 Conference's realignment crisis began in earnest on June 30, 2022, when the University of Southern California (USC) and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) announced their departure to join the Big Ten Conference starting in the 2024–25 academic year, citing geographic proximity and enhanced media revenue opportunities as key factors. This move shocked the conference, reducing its membership to 10 full members and exposing vulnerabilities in its media rights negotiations, which had lagged behind competitors like the Big Ten and SEC. The departures highlighted long-standing issues, including an outdated 12-year media deal from 2011 that distributed revenues equally among members, alienating powerhouse programs like USC that sought performance-based incentives.[29] The crisis escalated throughout 2023 as other schools sought exits amid stalled media rights talks under Commissioner George Kliavkoff, who assumed the role in 2021 but struggled to secure a competitive deal. On July 27, 2023, the University of Colorado announced its immediate departure to the Big 12 Conference, dropping the Pac-12 to nine members and prompting speculation about the league's viability for NCAA FBS football requirements, which mandate at least eight members. This was followed by a cascade of announcements on August 4, 2023: the University of Oregon and University of Washington joined USC and UCLA in the Big Ten, while the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and University of Utah moved to the Big 12, leaving only four schools—California (Cal), Stanford University, Oregon State University, and Washington State University.[30][31] The rapid exodus was driven by lucrative media deals elsewhere—the Big Ten secured approximately $7 billion over seven years, far surpassing the Pac-12's projected $200–250 million annually—and dissatisfaction with the Pac-12's failed attempt at a streaming-focused deal with Apple in July 2023, which offered just $20–30 million per school per year. By September 1, 2023, Cal and Stanford accepted an offer to join the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) as non-football members starting in 2024, with football affiliation delayed until 2026 due to grant-of-rights constraints, further isolating Oregon State and Washington State as the sole remaining full members. This left the Pac-12 on the brink of dissolution, unable to meet NCAA minimums for Division I competition without immediate action, and facing the loss of its automatic NCAA tournament qualification and bowl tie-ins. The conference's internal governance fractured, with departing schools attempting to convene a board meeting to disband the league and distribute assets, prompting Oregon State and Washington State to file a lawsuit on September 8, 2023, in Whitman County Superior Court against the 10 exiting members for breach of bylaws and seeking control of the conference's governance.[32] The legal battle intensified the near-collapse, as Oregon State and Washington State argued they were the only members adhering to the Pac-12's constitution, which required a simple majority vote for major decisions—a threshold the departing schools allegedly bypassed. On November 15, 2023, a Washington state judge granted a preliminary injunction, affirming Oregon State and Washington State as the sole voting members of the Pac-12 Board of Directors and halting asset distributions to departing schools.[33] This ruling preserved the conference's trademarks, media archives, and remaining funds—estimated at over $300 million in reserves—but underscored the league's dire state, with no clear path to reconstitution and projections of annual revenues dropping below $10 million without new affiliations.[34] A temporary revenue-sharing agreement reached on December 22, 2023, allowed the two schools to retain 90% of the 2023–24 distributions (about $13 million each), while the departing schools received 10%, averting immediate financial ruin but highlighting the Pac-12's transformation from a premier Power Five entity to a skeletal operation on the verge of extinction.[35]Rebuild through Mountain West merger
Following the mass exodus of ten member institutions between 2022 and 2024, which left the Pac-12 with only Oregon State University and Washington State University as full members, the conference faced an existential threat under NCAA rules requiring at least eight Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) programs to maintain its status.[9] To avert dissolution, conference leaders pursued strategic partnerships and expansions, initially exploring a full merger with the Mountain West Conference (MWC) in early 2024 as a means to consolidate resources and secure media rights viability.[36] These merger discussions, which included proposals for a "reverse merger" where the Pac-12 brand would absorb MWC institutions, ultimately stalled due to disagreements over governance, revenue sharing, and exit fees, leading instead to targeted poaching of MWC schools.[37] In September 2024, the Pac-12 announced the addition of four MWC programs—Boise State University, Colorado State University, Fresno State, and San Diego State—for the 2026 academic year, marking the first concrete step in its rebuild.[38] This was followed by the commitment of Utah State University, also from the MWC, and Gonzaga University as an affiliate for men's and women's basketball, further bolstering the conference's roster.[39] In June 2025, Texas State University from the Sun Belt Conference joined as a full member effective July 1, 2026. These additions were facilitated by a temporary scheduling alliance formed in 2023 between the Pac-12 (then comprising Oregon State and Washington State), the MWC, and other independents, which allowed non-conference games in 2024 to fill schedules amid the realignment chaos; however, negotiations for a 2025 extension broke down over financial terms, with the MWC demanding $30 million for game guarantees compared to the Pac-12's initial $6 million offer.[40] The alliance provided a bridge but highlighted the fragility of the relationship, as the Pac-12 sought to build a sustainable eight-team FBS core without a full merger.[41] The poaching of MWC schools triggered immediate legal conflicts, centered on exit fees and penalties outlined in the MWC's grant-of-rights agreement. The MWC imposed a $55 million collective "poaching penalty" on the Pac-12 for the additions, plus $19 million per departing school in exit fees, prompting the Pac-12 to file an antitrust lawsuit in July 2025 alleging the fees were anticompetitive and designed to block realignment.[42] A federal judge denied the MWC's motion to dismiss on September 30, 2025, allowing the case to proceed to discovery, while the departing schools—Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, and Utah State—filed separate suits challenging their individual exit fees.[43] The MWC responded with counterclaims in October 2025, accusing the Pac-12 of promissory fraud in merger talks and seeking to enforce the penalties, escalating tensions as mediation efforts failed.[44] As of November 2025, the litigation remains unresolved, with recent court filings on November 10, 2025, extending deadlines, and potential impacts on the Pac-12's finances and scheduling for the 2026 launch.[45] This reconstituted conference, operating under the Pac-12 banner with headquarters in Denver, Colorado, secured media rights deals including with CBS Sports and ESPN for 2025 coverage, a renewal with The CW through 2030–31, and a five-year agreement with USA Network announced on November 13, 2025, valued at approximately $120-150 million annually as of November 2025—far below the previous Pac-12's $500 million but sufficient to distribute $10-15 million per school, enhancing stability.[46][8] The rebuild emphasizes a West-focused footprint, prioritizing competitive balance in football and basketball while navigating the diminished Power Five status, with the new league set to compete in the 12-team College Football Playoff as a Group of Five equivalent.[47]| Added Institution | Origin Conference | Effective Date | Primary Sports |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boise State University | Mountain West | July 1, 2026 | Football, All |
| Colorado State University | Mountain West | July 1, 2026 | Football, All |
| Fresno State | Mountain West | July 1, 2026 | Football, All |
| San Diego State | Mountain West | July 1, 2026 | Football, All |
| Utah State University | Mountain West | July 1, 2026 | Football, All |
| Texas State University | Sun Belt | July 1, 2026 | Football, All |
| Gonzaga University (affiliate) | West Coast | July 1, 2026 | Basketball (M/W) |
Membership
Current full members
As of November 2025, the Pac-12 Conference operates with only two full member institutions: Oregon State University and Washington State University. These universities are the last remaining from the conference's prior twelve-member structure following a massive realignment wave that saw ten schools depart between 2023 and 2024, primarily to the Big Ten, Big 12, and ACC conferences.[48][9] Under NCAA bylaws, the Pac-12 received a two-year grace period—extending through the 2025–26 academic year—to maintain conference status despite falling below the minimum eight full members required for automatic qualification to the College Football Playoff and other benefits.[49][50] Oregon State University, located in Corvallis, Oregon, was a charter member of the original Pacific Coast Conference in 1915 and rejoined the conference's successor, the Athletic Association of Western Universities (AAWU), in 1964, remaining a continuous full member since. The Beavers field teams in 17 NCAA Division I sports, with notable success in wrestling (multiple Pac-12 titles, including streaks in the 2000s and 2010s), baseball (three national championships and eight College World Series appearances), and women's cross country (consistent NCAA appearances and strong regional performances). Washington State University, based in Pullman, Washington, joined the original Pacific Coast Conference in 1917 and the AAWU in 1962, competing continuously in the Pac-12 lineage. The Cougars sponsor 15 varsity sports, excelling in football (two Rose Bowl appearances) and volleyball (consistent NCAA tournament participants).| Institution | Location | State | Year Joined Pac-12 Lineage | Primary Colors | Notable Sports Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon State University (Beavers) | Corvallis | Oregon | 1915 | Orange, Black | Wrestling, Baseball, Women's Cross Country |
| Washington State University (Cougars) | Pullman | Washington | 1917 | Crimson, Gray | Football, Volleyball |
Associate and affiliate members
The Pac-12 Conference utilizes associate and affiliate memberships to sustain competitive leagues in select non-football sports, particularly during its transitional period following significant realignment. These arrangements allow institutions outside of full membership to participate in conference championships and NCAA automatic qualifiers without committing to the broader conference structure. As of the 2025–26 academic year, the conference's affiliate memberships are concentrated in men's wrestling, where they help maintain the minimum number of programs required for NCAA recognition.[53] In men's wrestling, the Pac-12's current affiliate members include California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB), and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. These institutions compete alongside Oregon State University, the conference's sole full member sponsoring the sport, to form a four-team league for the 2025–26 season. Cal Poly and CSUB, both public universities in California, have long histories in the sport and contribute to the West Coast's wrestling tradition, while Little Rock, a public institution in Arkansas, joined as an affiliate in 2019–20 to bolster the conference after several full members discontinued the program. This structure ensures the Pac-12 retains its status as an NCAA Division I wrestling conference, with affiliates eligible for the automatic bid to the national championships.[54][55] Looking ahead, the Pac-12 has announced expansions to its affiliate roster. Northern Illinois University will join as a wrestling affiliate starting in the 2026–27 season, increasing the league to five teams and strengthening its competitive depth; the public university from DeKalb, Illinois, brings a program with recent NCAA qualifiers, including two in 2025. Additionally, Dallas Baptist University, a private institution in Texas known for its powerhouse baseball program, accepted an invitation to become a baseball affiliate beginning in the 2027 season, aiming to elevate the sport amid the conference's rebuild. These additions reflect the Pac-12's strategy to incrementally restore viability in Olympic sports through targeted affiliations.[53][56] No current affiliate memberships exist in other sports for the 2025–26 season, though the conference previously supported affiliates in areas like men's soccer and beach volleyball prior to realignment. Oregon State and Washington State, the remaining full members, handle most other sponsored sports independently or through temporary arrangements, such as Washington State's baseball program competing as a Mountain West affiliate in 2024–25 before realigning. The focus on wrestling affiliates underscores the conference's prioritization of maintaining NCAA compliance in niche sports during its ongoing reconstruction.[57]Former full members
The Pac-12 Conference, tracing its roots to the Pacific Coast Conference founded in 1915, has seen numerous changes in its full membership over its century-plus history, with several institutions departing due to dissolutions, realignments, and expansions of other conferences. Early departures occurred as the league transitioned from the original Pacific Coast Conference (PCC) to the Athletic Association of Western Universities (AAWU) in 1959, leaving behind smaller programs that could not sustain competitive or financial commitments. In more recent years, a dramatic realignment crisis in 2023–2024 led to the exit of ten full members, reducing the conference to just two institutions and prompting a rebuild through mergers and additions from the Mountain West Conference.[1][58] Among the earliest former full members were the University of Idaho and the University of Montana, which joined the PCC in 1922 and 1924, respectively, but departed amid the league's restructuring. Idaho left after the 1958–59 academic year as the PCC dissolved due to eligibility scandals and financial strains, while Montana exited earlier in 1949–50 following disputes over academic standards and travel costs. These departures marked the beginning of a more selective membership focused on larger research universities in the West.[1] The most significant wave of departures came during the 2023–2024 realignment, driven by lucrative media rights deals and competitive imbalances. The University of Southern California (USC) and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), longtime members since 1922 and 1928, respectively, announced their move to the Big Ten Conference effective July 1, 2024, citing enhanced national exposure and revenue sharing. Similarly, the University of Washington and University of Oregon, founding members from 1915, joined the Big Ten in 2024 to align with Midwestern powerhouses and boost their athletics budgets. Stanford University, a member since 1918, and the University of California, Berkeley (Cal), a charter member from 1915, transitioned to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) starting in 2024, preserving their academic rivalries while accessing a larger media market. The University of Arizona and Arizona State University, who joined in 1978 to form the Pacific-10, along with the University of Colorado and University of Utah (added in 2011 to create the Pac-12), all departed for the Big 12 Conference in 2024, seeking stability and increased payouts amid the Pac-12's faltering TV negotiations. These exits, announced in rapid succession between August and December 2023, left Oregon State University and Washington State University as the sole remaining full members, both charter or near-charter institutions from 1915 and 1917.[29][38][59]| Institution | Years as Full Member | Notes on Departure |
|---|---|---|
| University of California, Berkeley (Cal) | 1915–2024 | Founding member; moved to ACC in 2024 for media revenue and East Coast ties.[29] |
| University of Washington | 1915–2024 | Founding member; joined Big Ten in 2024 to enhance national profile.[29] |
| University of Oregon | 1915–2024 | Founding member; departed to Big Ten in 2024 amid realignment wave.[29] |
| Stanford University | 1918–2024 | Joined PCC in 1918; transitioned to ACC in 2024 with Cal.[29] |
| University of Southern California (USC) | 1922–2024 | Joined PCC in 1922; moved to Big Ten in 2024 with UCLA.[29] |
| University of Idaho | 1922–1959 | Joined PCC in 1922; left after PCC dissolution in 1959 due to financial issues.[1] |
| University of Montana | 1924–1950 | Joined PCC in 1924; departed in 1950 over academic and cost disputes.[1] |
| University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 1928–2024 | Joined PCC in 1928; joined Big Ten in 2024 for expanded reach.[29] |
| University of Arizona | 1978–2024 | Joined as Pacific-10 in 1978; moved to Big 12 in 2024.[29] |
| Arizona State University | 1978–2024 | Joined as Pacific-10 in 1978; departed to Big 12 in 2024.[29] |
| University of Utah | 2011–2024 | Joined as Pac-12 in 2011; left for Big 12 in 2024.[29] |
| University of Colorado | 2011–2024 | Joined as Pac-12 in 2011; rejoined Big 12 in 2024.[29] |
Membership timeline
The Pac-12 Conference's membership has undergone significant evolution since its origins as the Pacific Coast Conference (PCC) in 1915, marked by periodic expansions, dissolutions, renamings, and recent realignments amid broader NCAA conference shifts. Initially focused on West Coast institutions, the league grew to 10 members by 1928 before contracting and reforming in 1959 as the Athletic Association of Western Universities (AAWU). It expanded to eight teams by 1968 as the Pacific-8, then to 10 in 1978, and reached 12 in 2011. The conference faced a near-collapse between 2022 and 2024, losing 10 members to other power conferences, leaving only Oregon State and Washington State. By 2025, it rebuilt through additions from the Mountain West Conference and others, aiming for eight football-sponsoring members starting in 2026.[1][60][4]| Year | Key Event | Teams Involved |
|---|---|---|
| 1915 | Founded as Pacific Coast Conference (PCC) with four charter members. | California, Oregon, Oregon State, Washington.[1] |
| 1917 | First expansion adds one member. | Washington State joins.[1] |
| 1918 | Expansion to six members. | Stanford joins.[1] |
| 1922 | Expansion to eight members. | Idaho and USC join.[1] |
| 1924 | Expansion to nine members. | Montana joins.[1] |
| 1928 | Reaches 10 members. | UCLA joins.[1] |
| 1950 | First departure reduces to nine members. | Montana resigns to join the Mountain States Conference.[1] |
| 1959 | PCC dissolves due to scandals; AAWU forms with five core members (renamed to Pacific-8 in 1968). | California, Stanford, UCLA, USC, Washington form AAWU; Idaho departs.[1][60] |
| 1962 | AAWU expands to six members. | Washington State joins.[1] |
| 1964 | AAWU expands to eight members. | Oregon and Oregon State join.[1] |
| 1978 | Renamed Pacific-10 Conference with addition of two members. | Arizona and Arizona State join.[1] |
| 2010–2011 | Expands to 12 members and renamed Pac-12 (effective July 1, 2011). | Colorado joins on June 11, 2010; Utah joins on June 17, 2010.[1] |
| 2022 | Initial realignment announcements trigger mass exodus. | USC and UCLA announce departure to Big Ten (effective 2024–25).[60] |
| 2023 | Accelerated departures reduce conference to two full members by 2024. | Colorado departs to Big 12 (announced July 27, effective 2024); Oregon and Washington to Big Ten, Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah to Big 12 (announced August 4, effective 2024); Stanford and California to ACC (announced September 1, effective 2024).[60][4] |
| 2024 | Rebuild begins with four Mountain West additions (effective 2026–27). | Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, and San Diego State join (announced September 12). Utah State joins (announced September 24). Gonzaga joins as non-football affiliate (announced September 30).[60][4] |
| 2025 | Finalizes eight-member football conference for 2026–27 season. | Texas State joins as all-sports member (announced June 30, effective July 1, 2026), completing lineup with Oregon State and Washington State as holdovers.[41] |
Geographic footprint
The Pac-12 Conference's geographic footprint, as of November 2025, is limited to the Pacific Northwest, encompassing just two full member institutions: Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, and Washington State University in Pullman, Washington.[61] This reduced presence stems from extensive realignment in 2024, when ten of the conference's twelve members departed for other leagues, leaving only these two schools to retain the Pac-12 name and assets following a legal settlement. Effective July 1, 2026, the conference will expand to eight full members with football programs, significantly broadening its regional scope across the western United States. These additions include Boise State University in Boise, Idaho; Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado; California State University, Fresno in Fresno, California; San Diego State University in San Diego, California; Utah State University in Logan, Utah; and Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas.[5][62][41] This configuration will position the Pac-12 as a primarily Mountain West-oriented league, with members clustered in the Rocky Mountain region and extending westward to the Pacific Coast and southeastward into Texas, spanning approximately 1,500 miles from San Diego to San Marcos.[9] Additionally, Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, will join as a full non-football member in all sponsored sports starting in 2026, reinforcing the conference's presence in the state of Washington without altering the overall western focus.[63] The resulting footprint emphasizes states along the Pacific and into the interior West—California, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington—facilitating regional rivalries while diverging from the conference's original coastal emphasis during its Pac-10 era.[5]| Institution | City | State |
|---|---|---|
| Boise State University | Boise | Idaho |
| California State University, Fresno | Fresno | California |
| Colorado State University | Fort Collins | Colorado |
| Gonzaga University (non-football) | Spokane | Washington |
| Oregon State University | Corvallis | Oregon |
| San Diego State University | San Diego | California |
| Texas State University | San Marcos | Texas |
| Utah State University | Logan | Utah |
| Washington State University | Pullman | Washington |
Governance
Commissioners and leadership
The Pac-12 Conference traces its origins to the Athletic Association of Western Universities (AAWU), established in 1959, with Thomas J. Hamilton serving as its inaugural commissioner from that year until 1971.[1] During his tenure, the conference expanded to include Oregon and Washington State in 1964, and it rebranded as the Pacific-8 Conference in 1968, solidifying its focus on intercollegiate athletics in the western United States.[1] Wiles Hallock succeeded Hamilton in 1971 and led the conference until 1983, overseeing the addition of Arizona and Arizona State in 1978, which transformed it into the Pacific-10 Conference.[64] Under Hallock, the Pac-10 emphasized competitive balance and compliance with NCAA standards during a period of growing national scrutiny on college sports.[64] Thomas C. Hansen took over as commissioner in 1983, holding the position for 26 years until 2009.[1] His leadership saw the conference navigate the introduction of revenue-sharing models for media rights and the expansion to 12 members with the addition of Colorado in 2011, shortly after his departure.[1] Hansen's era focused on elevating the Pac-10's profile in football and basketball, contributing to multiple national championships among member institutions.[65] Larry Scott became commissioner in 2009 and served until June 30, 2021, during which the conference rebranded as the Pac-12 in 2011 following the addition of Utah.[66] Scott negotiated landmark media deals, including a 2011 agreement with Fox and NBC valued at over $3 billion over 12 years, which boosted conference revenue and supported academic-athletic initiatives.[66] His tenure also emphasized gender equity and student-athlete welfare, though it faced criticism for expansion decisions amid shifting conference alignments.[66] George Kliavkoff was appointed commissioner in May 2021, succeeding Scott, but his tenure ended mutually on February 29, 2024, amid challenges from conference realignment and media negotiations.[67] Kliavkoff, previously an executive at MGM Resorts, aimed to modernize digital media distribution but departed as the conference navigated significant membership losses.[67] Teresa Gould assumed the role of commissioner on March 1, 2024, bringing over 35 years of experience in college athletics administration.[2] Under her leadership, the Pac-12 has pursued strategic mergers and expansions, including affiliations with Mountain West institutions starting in 2024 and the addition of Texas State in 2025, to rebuild its footprint.[41] Gould's focus has been on stabilizing operations and enhancing competitive opportunities for remaining members Oregon State and Washington State through the 2025–26 academic year.[2]| Commissioner | Tenure | Key Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| Thomas J. Hamilton | 1959–1971 | Founded AAWU; rebranded to Pac-8; initial expansions.[1] |
| Wiles Hallock | 1971–1983 | Added Arizona schools; grew to Pac-10.[64] |
| Thomas C. Hansen | 1983–2009 | Long-term stability; media rights advancements; prepared for Pac-12 expansion.[1] |
| Larry Scott | 2009–2021 | Secured major TV deals; rebranded to Pac-12; emphasized equity.[66] |
| George Kliavkoff | 2021–2024 | Focused on digital media; navigated early realignment.[67] |
| Teresa Gould | 2024–present | Led rebuild via mergers and new memberships.[2] |
Conference headquarters
The headquarters of the Pac-12 Conference is located at 12647 Alcosta Boulevard, 5th Floor, in San Ramon, California 94583.[68] This facility serves as the central administrative hub for the conference's operations, including governance, media production through Pac-12 Enterprises, and strategic planning amid ongoing realignment efforts.[69] The site, part of the Bishop Ranch office complex, features state-of-the-art broadcast capabilities, with five large-scale control rooms supporting remote and software-defined productions for conference events.[70] The move to San Ramon occurred in July 2023, relocating from the conference's long-standing headquarters at 360 Third Street in San Francisco's SoMa district.[71] This transition was driven by cost-saving measures, as the new 42,000-square-foot space at Bishop Ranch 15 (addresses 12647–12677 Alcosta Boulevard) reduced operational expenses compared to the downtown San Francisco lease.[72] The San Francisco office had been the base since at least the early 2010s, housing both administrative staff and production facilities for the Pac-12 Networks.[73] In May 2023, the conference announced the dissolution of the San Francisco headquarters, initially shifting many employees to remote work before consolidating at the East Bay location.[73] As of January 2025, the San Ramon headquarters remains active, hosting key meetings such as the athletic directors' summit for the "new-world Pac-12," which includes planning for future mergers and media deals.[74] Despite earlier explorations of subleasing options in late 2023 amid staff reductions, the facility continues to support the conference's reduced operations with Oregon State University and Washington State University as full members, alongside affiliate partnerships.[71]Revenue distribution model
The Pac-12 Conference historically operated an equal revenue distribution model among its full members, with media rights fees forming the largest component. Prior to the 2024 realignment, the conference distributed approximately $32 million annually per school from its media rights agreements, including deals with ESPN and Fox, ensuring parity to foster competitive balance across institutions. This approach emphasized shared prosperity from collective bargaining, with additional funds from NCAA distributions and sponsorships allocated evenly after covering operational costs.[75] Following the departure of ten members in 2024 and the subsequent rebuild through a merger with select Mountain West Conference schools, the Pac-12 adopted a hybrid revenue distribution model incorporating performance-based elements to incentivize success and adapt to reduced overall revenue. The new media rights agreement, effective from the 2026–27 academic year and valued at an estimated $70 million to $100 million annually for the conference with eight to nine full members, provides a base payout of roughly $7 million to $12 million per school, distributed as equal full shares among football-sponsoring institutions. For instance, at a $70 million valuation divided among nine members, each receives about $7.8 million, though partial shares may apply to non-football affiliates like Gonzaga University. This base structure, which includes partnerships with CBS, The CW (renewed through 2030–31), and USA Sports (announced November 13, 2025, for a five-year deal covering football and basketball games produced by Pac-12 Enterprises), maintains some equity while reflecting the conference's diminished bargaining power post-realignment.[76][77][78][8] Performance incentives augment the base distribution, drawing inspiration from models in conferences like the ACC, where success in high-profile sports drives additional allocations. Postseason revenues, such as those from the College Football Playoff (CFP) and NCAA Tournament, are split 50% to the participating institution and 50% to a conference-wide pool for redistribution, rewarding achievements in football and basketball while supporting broader conference stability. Washington State and Oregon State, for example, are projected to receive $3.6 million each from CFP distributions in 2026–28, with Mountain West additions like Boise State accessing $1.8 million. Overall, total annual distributions per school are expected to range from $10 million to $15 million, incorporating NCAA units (e.g., $15 million conference-wide from 43 units in 2027) and revenue from Pac-12 Enterprises, the conference's media production arm. This model aims to bridge funding gaps—previously a $20 million annual drop per school—by prioritizing competitive outputs amid the shift from Power Five autonomy status.[76][77][78][75]Sports Programs
Overview of sponsored sports
The Pac-12 Conference, during its transitional period with two full members through the 2025–26 academic year, currently sponsors six sports: baseball, football, men's basketball, women's basketball, men's track and field, and women's track and field. Following restructuring and planned expansion effective July 1, 2026, the conference will sponsor 8 men's sports and 11 women's sports as outlined in its grant of media rights and membership agreement.[79] This selection emphasizes football as the primary revenue-generating sport while supporting a range of Olympic and non-revenue disciplines to meet NCAA Division I requirements for Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) membership, which mandates at least 16 varsity sports with specific gender equity distributions. The conference organizes annual championships in these sports for its full members, with potential affiliate participation to ensure competitive balance, particularly in sports not universally sponsored by all institutions.[3] For men's sports, the Pac-12's planned sponsorship from 2026 focuses on team-based and individual competitions that align with its West Coast heritage and expansion into Mountain West and Sun Belt regions. The sponsored men's sports will be:| Sport | Notes |
|---|---|
| Football | Primary revenue sport; 8 full members compete in FBS.[41] |
| Basketball | Includes regular-season and postseason tournaments. |
| Baseball | Seasonal competition with regional rivalries. |
| Golf | Individual and team championships. |
| Cross Country | Fall season with regional qualifiers. |
| Outdoor Track and Field | Spring events culminating in conference meet. |
| Tennis | Dual matches and tournament format. |
| Wrestling | Affiliate potential for broader participation.[79] |
| Sport | Notes |
|---|---|
| Basketball | Features national broadcast partnerships.[80] |
| Cross Country | Integrated with track seasons. |
| Outdoor Track and Field | Hosts conference championships. |
| Soccer | Fall competition with playoff structure. |
| Volleyball | Indoor format with regional focus. |
| Golf | Emphasizes skill-based tournaments. |
| Softball | Spring season for full members. |
| Swimming and Diving | Dual meets and conference meet. |
| Tennis | Similar to men's with team emphasis. |
| Gymnastics | Potential affiliate involvement. |
| Rowing | Status to be finalized in 2025; crew events on water courses.[79] |
Men's sports details
The Pac-12 Conference sponsors eight men's sports as planned for the 2026–27 academic year: basketball, baseball, cross country, football, golf, tennis, track and field, and wrestling. With Oregon State University and Washington State University as the sole full members during the 2025–26 transitional period following realignment, conference competition is limited to matchups between these two institutions in most sports, supplemented by affiliate arrangements with other conferences for broader participation. This structure ensures compliance with NCAA requirements while the conference rebuilds, with plans to expand to ten members by 2026, including Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, Gonzaga, San Diego State, Texas State, Utah State, and the existing duo, thereby revitalizing competition across all sponsored sports.[82] Football remains the conference's premier men's sport, historically renowned for producing national champions and Heisman Trophy winners from member institutions. In the 2025 season, Oregon State and Washington State competed in a single conference game on November 1, 2025, at Reser Stadium in Corvallis, where the Beavers secured a 10-7 victory, powered by running back Anthony Hankerson's 132 rushing yards and a game-winning 1-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. This low-scoring defensive battle highlighted the challenges of the two-team format, as both teams played the majority of their schedules as de facto independents to maintain Football Bowl Subdivision eligibility. The upcoming expansion is expected to restore a full nine-game conference schedule starting in 2026, positioning the Pac-12 as a competitive FBS entity in the western United States.[83] Men's basketball, a cornerstone of Pac-12 tradition with multiple Final Four appearances by former members, operates under affiliate ties to the West Coast Conference (WCC) for the 2025-26 season to facilitate a fuller schedule. Oregon State and Washington State each played non-conference games early in the season, including Oregon State's matchup against UIC on November 7, 2025, where they secured a 76-73 victory, and Washington State's contest versus Davidson College on the same day. Gonzaga University, a perennial powerhouse with 25 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances prior to 2025, has committed to joining the Pac-12 as a full non-football member starting in 2026, bringing elite talent and boosting the conference's national profile in the sport. Historically, Pac-12 teams have combined for over 50 NCAA titles in men's basketball, underscoring the league's legacy of excellence.[82][84][85] Baseball and track and field represent strong Olympic-style programs within the Pac-12, with Oregon State maintaining its status as a defending national champion in baseball from 2018. In 2025, Oregon State hosted the Pac-12 Baseball Tournament as the sole sponsor, while Washington State participated through scheduling agreements; the Beavers' program has produced 20 College World Series appearances since joining the conference. Track and field, encompassing both indoor and outdoor events, features competition between the two members, with Oregon State's long-standing dominance evidenced by 15 NCAA team titles across men's and combined events. Wrestling, sponsored with affiliates from the Western Wrestling Conference, saw Oregon State and other associates compete in the 2025 Pac-12 Championships, where the Beavers claimed the team title for the third consecutive year.[82][86][87] Cross country, golf, and tennis round out the planned sponsored sports, emphasizing endurance and precision athletics. In cross country, Oregon State and Washington State raced in regional meets under Pac-12 branding, with the conference championships held in early November 2025 at a neutral site in the Pacific Northwest. Golf programs from both schools competed individually in fall tournaments, leveraging the conference's scenic venues like Chambers Bay for qualifiers. Tennis, affiliated with WCC members including Gonzaga and Santa Clara, allowed Oregon State and Washington State to integrate into a competitive schedule, culminating in the Pac-12 Tournament. These sports collectively highlight the Pac-12's commitment to well-rounded athletic development, with quantitative impacts including over 100 Olympic medals won by alumni from member programs since 1915.[82]Women's sports details
The Pac-12 Conference began sponsoring women's sports in the 1986–87 academic year, initially with 10 programs, and expanded to 13 by the early 2000s, establishing itself as a leader in women's collegiate athletics.[1] This growth aligned with the broader push for gender equity under Title IX, allowing member institutions to compete at the highest levels in NCAA Division I.[88] By 2024, prior to realignment, Pac-12 women's teams had collectively won over 200 NCAA national championships, contributing significantly to the conference's total of 514 titles, the most of any NCAA conference.[1] These achievements underscore the Pac-12's nickname as the "Conference of Champions," with women's programs often outpacing men's in title counts during the modern era.[89] During the 2025–26 transitional period, women's sports sponsorship is limited alongside men's, focusing on basketball and track and field between the two members. From 2026, the conference plans to sponsor 11 women's sports: basketball, cross country, outdoor track and field, soccer, volleyball, golf, softball, swimming and diving, tennis, gymnastics, and rowing.[79] Among these planned sports, historical dominance in volleyball stands out, with former Pac-12 teams claiming 25 of the 49 NCAA titles since the championship began in 1981, led by institutions like Stanford (9 titles) and UCLA (4).[88] Softball has seen similar dominance, with Pac-12 schools winning 28 of 43 NCAA championships, including UCLA's record 12 and Arizona's 8, highlighting the conference's strength in Olympic-style sports.[90] In swimming and diving, member teams have secured 25 NCAA titles, with Stanford alone earning 10 since 1981.[88] Women's basketball has been a flagship program, producing multiple NCAA champions and individual stars, such as Stanford's 3 titles (1990, 1992, 2021) and Oregon's 2019 Final Four run.[91] The conference has awarded annual honors like Player of the Year since 1988, with Stanford's Cameron Brink earning the distinction in 2023–24 for her defensive prowess and scoring average of 17.4 points per game.[91] Track and field programs have excelled in both indoor and outdoor events, with USC and Oregon combining for over 20 NCAA team titles, including Oregon's sweep of the 2009 indoor and outdoor championships.[1] Rowing emerged as a powerhouse later, with Washington securing the 2001, 2017, and 2021 NCAA titles.[89] Gymnastics has also driven success, with UCLA winning 7 NCAA titles.[88] The Pac-12's emphasis on academic-athletic balance is evident in awards like the Tom Hansen Conference Medal, given to top senior women since 2009 for excellence in multiple domains, and the Pac-12 Woman of the Year, recognizing holistic contributions.[68] Amid the 2023–24 realignment that reduced full membership to Oregon State and Washington State through 2025–26, the conference plans to maintain 11 women's sports in its rebuilding phase, focusing on competitive viability.[92] This legacy has positioned the Pac-12 as a trailblazer, with women's teams winning at least six NCAA titles annually on average since 1982.[89]Non-conference sports participation
In the Pac-12 Conference, non-conference participation refers to the scheduling and competition of member institutions against opponents outside the conference in sponsored sports, governed by conference bylaws to promote competitive integrity, resource management, and NCAA compliance. These policies emphasize quality matchups, video exchange protocols, and restrictions on scouting to balance regular-season preparation with conference priorities. Historically, such participation has been integral to building team strength, particularly in revenue-generating sports like football and basketball, while allowing flexibility in Olympic sports.[93] For football, Pac-12 teams traditionally played three or four non-conference games early in the season, limited to Weeks 1 through 3 (or 4 in extended seasons), with the remainder of the schedule dedicated to a nine-game conference slate divided between intra- and inter-divisional opponents. Neutral-site non-conference contests required the conference to retain exclusive broadcast rights, except in home-and-home series away games, ensuring media revenue protection. Video exchanges of prior-season non-conference games were permitted with opponents to aid scouting, but professional scouts were barred from sidelines across all games. These rules aimed to minimize travel disruptions within the conference's western footprint while fostering high-profile matchups, such as interregional rivalries.[93] Men's basketball non-conference scheduling imposed stringent quality controls starting in the 2020-21 season, requiring opponents to have a five-year trailing NCAA NET ranking average of 175 or better, with no road games against teams ranked 200 or worse and a prohibition on "buy" games where payment guarantees participation. Violations incurred fines equivalent to one NCAA unit (approximately $280,000), waivable only by commissioner appeal. Non-televised away games mandated video uploads to the conference's Synergysportstech platform within 12 hours of return, supporting analytics sharing. Women's basketball followed similar upload requirements for all non-conference games, due by midnight local time for home contests or 24 hours post-return for away, though without the NET-specific mandates. These measures elevated non-conference play as a proving ground for NCAA Tournament seeding.[93] In Olympic sports, non-conference participation prioritized conference scheduling but allowed broad flexibility, with shared protocols for video and scouting. For men's and women's soccer, video of non-conference games had to be uploaded to platforms like Spiideo/InStat by the following Monday at 5:00 p.m. or noon the next day, but no in-person scouting of conference games was permitted, and reports on conference opponents could not be shared externally. Women's lacrosse mirrored this, restricting fall video sharing with non-conference teams. Softball and volleyball, as core sports, integrated non-conference games post-conference alignment, favoring local officials unless top-rated crews were requested, with fees set at $300 for spring and $125 for fall non-conference contests. In swimming and diving, conference dual meets took precedence over non-conference ones; for instance, northern teams like Utah and Washington State were required to face southern counterparts annually or biennially. Track and field had no mandated regular-season conference schedule, permitting non-conference competitions with mutual coach consent for conference meet invitations. These guidelines ensured non-conference play enhanced development without compromising conference cohesion.[93] Amid the conference's 2020s realignment, which reduced active membership to Oregon State and Washington State for the 2024-25 academic year, non-conference participation evolved into scheduling partnerships, such as a 2024 football agreement with the Mountain West Conference providing opponents for all games. For 2025, without a renewed Mountain West deal, the duo operated semi-independently, relying on pre-existing contracts for non-conference slots while planning expansion to ten members by 2026, including Texas State, which will necessitate updated scheduling models blending traditional Pac-12 policies with new affiliations.[94][95]Championships
National titles by institution
The Pac-12 Conference, often dubbed the "Conference of Champions," has amassed a record 514 NCAA team national championships across its member institutions through the 2023-24 academic year, far surpassing any other conference in NCAA history.[1] These titles span 34 sports, with particular dominance in Olympic disciplines like track and field, swimming, tennis, volleyball, and gymnastics. The conference's success reflects its emphasis on broad-based athletic programs, with schools collectively winning titles in 28 of the 36 NCAA-sponsored Division I sports.[1] Stanford University leads all Pac-12 institutions with 141 NCAA team titles, showcasing unparalleled depth in women's sports such as tennis (20 titles) and swimming (11 titles), alongside men's achievements in tennis (17 titles) and gymnastics (9 titles).[1] UCLA follows closely with 121 championships, excelling in men's volleyball (20 titles), men's basketball (11 titles), and softball (13 titles), while the University of Southern California holds 111 titles, driven by men's outdoor track and field (26 titles), baseball (12 titles), and men's tennis (21 titles).[1] These three California-based powerhouses account for over half of the conference's total, highlighting the region's historical athletic infrastructure and coaching legacies. Other institutions contribute significantly to the conference's legacy. The University of California, Berkeley, has secured 41 titles, including eight in men's swimming and four each in men's and women's rowing.[1] Oregon boasts 17 championships, predominantly in track and field with seven men's outdoor titles, four men's indoor titles, and five men's cross country titles.[1] Arizona and Arizona State each have strong showings in softball (eight and two titles, respectively) and baseball (four and five titles), while Colorado and Utah dominate skiing with nine and nine co-ed titles combined.[1] Washington has 14 titles, led by five each in men's and women's rowing, and smaller programs like Oregon State (seven in baseball and wrestling) and Washington State (six in various sports) round out the diverse achievements.[1] Upcoming members effective July 1, 2026, such as Texas State University, will bring additional historical achievements to enhance the conference's legacy.[96]| Institution | Total NCAA Titles | Key Sports with Multiple Titles |
|---|---|---|
| Stanford | 141 | Women's Tennis (20), Men's Tennis (17), Women's Swimming (11) |
| UCLA | 121 | Men's Volleyball (20), Men's Basketball (11), Softball (13) |
| USC | 111 | Men's Outdoor Track (26), Baseball (12), Men's Tennis (21) |
| California | 41 | Men's Swimming (8), Men's Rowing (4), Women's Rowing (4) |
| Arizona | 20 | Softball (8), Baseball (4), Women's Golf (3) |
| Arizona State | 16 | Women's Golf (8), Baseball (5) |
| Oregon | 17 | Men's Outdoor Track (7), Men's Indoor Track (4), Men's Cross Country (5) |
| Washington | 14 | Men's Rowing (5), Women's Rowing (5) |
| Utah | 9 | Women's Gymnastics (9), Skiing (9 co-ed) |
| Colorado | 9 | Skiing (9 co-ed), Men's Cross Country (5) |
| Oregon State | 7 | Baseball (3), Wrestling (4) |
| Washington State | 6 | Women's Indoor Track (2), Other (4) |
Conference championship structure
The Pac-12 Conference traditionally determined its champions through a combination of regular-season standings, divisional alignments (where applicable), and postseason tournaments or championship games, varying by sport to align with NCAA guidelines and scheduling logistics. For most team sports, regular-season play followed a round-robin format among the conference's 12 member institutions, with champions crowned based on winning percentage or points accumulated (three for a win, one for a tie in sports like soccer). Co-championships were recognized in cases of ties unresolved by tiebreakers, and the conference's bylaws emphasized maximum effort in all competitions.[97] In football, the structure evolved significantly. From 2011 to 2021, the conference was divided into North and South divisions, with division winners advancing to the Pac-12 Football Championship Game held annually at a neutral site, such as Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Starting in 2022, following a bylaws amendment, the format shifted to eliminate divisions and pit the top two teams by conference winning percentage against each other, aiming to ensure the strongest possible matchup for College Football Playoff consideration. Tiebreakers for football included head-to-head results, performance against common opponents, schedule strength, and, if needed, a coin toss. This game determined the conference champion and automatic NCAA postseason representative.[98][97] Basketball championships (men's and women's) relied on an 18-game regular-season round-robin, with the team holding the highest winning percentage declared regular-season champion. A 12-team single-elimination postseason tournament, seeded by regular-season records, then determined the automatic NCAA qualifier, using head-to-head results as the primary tiebreaker. Similar structures applied to other sports: baseball and softball featured top-six or top-eight tournaments (double-elimination for baseball) following regular-season play; volleyball used a 20-match conference schedule with tiebreakers based on head-to-head, games won, and points ratio; and individual or dual sports like golf, swimming, tennis, and track & field crowned champions via dedicated conference meets emphasizing stroke play, meet scoring, or winning percentages. Soccer employed a points system with multi-step tiebreakers incorporating goal differentials.[97] Following the departure of 10 member institutions on August 2, 2024, leaving only Oregon State and Washington State, the conference's championship structure was suspended for most sports in 2024-25 and 2025-26, with the two schools operating in a hybrid independent status while retaining Pac-12 affiliation for branding and limited competitions. In football, the teams scheduled a home-and-home series, but no formal championship game occurred, and NCAA eligibility was maintained through non-conference play. However, select championships persisted where feasible; for instance, Oregon State was retroactively declared the 2025 wrestling champion after adjustments to participant eligibility.[9][99][86] The conference anticipates reinstating full structures, including potential divisional play and tournaments, upon adding new members starting in 2026-27, such as Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Utah State, Gonzaga (non-football), and Texas State, to meet NCAA minimums for official status.[5]Recent season champions
The Pac-12 Conference, long renowned for its competitive depth across multiple sports, saw a series of dominant performances in its final full seasons before significant realignment reduced its membership. From 2020 to 2023, the conference maintained its traditional structure with 12 institutions, producing champions in football, basketball, and other sports that often advanced to national contention. The 2023-24 academic year marked the last with a broad slate of teams, as most members departed for other conferences following the 2023-24 seasons, leaving Oregon State and Washington State to operate a transitional Pac-12 with limited sponsorship. This section highlights champions in key sports over the past decade, emphasizing trends in football and basketball where the conference's prestige was most evident.[1] In football, the Pac-12 Championship Game, introduced in 2011, crowned annual titlists through 2023, with the North and South Divisions determining participants until their elimination after 2020. Utah emerged as a powerhouse in the early 2020s, securing back-to-back titles, while Washington and Oregon also claimed recent hardware amid a shift toward West Coast rivalries. The conference's final football season in 2023 featured high-scoring affairs, underscoring the sport's role in the Pac-12's identity before realignment.[100]| Year | Champion | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Washington | Defeated Oregon 34-31 in the championship game.[101] |
| 2022 | Utah | Defeated USC 47-24; repeated as champions. |
| 2021 | Utah | Defeated Oregon 38-10 in inaugural non-divisional format. |
| 2020 | Oregon | Defeated USC 31-24; season shortened due to COVID-19.[102] |
| 2019 | Oregon | Defeated Utah 37-35; North Division winner. |
| 2018 | Washington State | Defeated Washington 28-20 in overtime; North Division. |
| 2017 | USC | Defeated Stanford 31-30; South Division. |
| 2016 | Washington | Defeated Colorado 41-10; North Division. |
| 2015 | Stanford | Defeated North Carolina 45-37 (non-conference bowl, but conference co-champ with UCLA).[103] |
| Year | Regular Season Champion(s) | Tournament Champion |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | Arizona | Oregon (def. Colorado 75-66).[105] |
| 2022-23 | UCLA | Arizona (def. UCLA 61-59).[106] |
| 2021-22 | Arizona | Arizona (def. UCLA 84-76).[107] |
| 2020-21 | Oregon | Oregon State (def. Oregon 80-69).[108] |
| 2019-20 | Oregon | None (canceled).[109] |
| 2018-19 | Washington | Oregon (def. Washington 73-54).[110] |
| 2017-18 | Arizona | Arizona (def. USC 85-80).[111] |
| 2016-17 | Arizona, Oregon (co-champions) | Arizona (def. Oregon 83-80).[112] |
| 2015-16 | Oregon | Oregon (def. Utah 88-57).[113] |
| Year | Regular Season Champion(s) | Tournament Champion |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | Stanford | USC (def. Stanford 74-61).[115] |
| 2022-23 | Stanford, Utah (co-champions) | Washington State (def. UCLA 65-64).[116] |
| 2021-22 | Stanford | Stanford (def. Arizona 59-47).[117] |
| 2020-21 | Stanford | Stanford (def. Arizona 54-53). |
| 2019-20 | Oregon | Oregon (def. Stanford 72-65). |
| 2018-19 | Oregon | Stanford (def. Oregon 77-48). |
| 2017-18 | Oregon | Oregon (def. Stanford 66-57). |
| 2016-17 | Oregon State | Stanford (def. Oregon State 48-43). |
| 2015-16 | Arizona State, Oregon State (co-champions) | Oregon State (def. Stanford 69-57). |
Directors' Cup standings
The Learfield Directors' Cup, administered by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), annually honors the top-performing NCAA Division I athletic programs based on points awarded for finishes in up to 19 sponsored sports, emphasizing balanced excellence across disciplines.[120] Pac-12 Conference institutions have demonstrated exceptional consistency in these standings, collectively securing more top-25 finishes than any other conference over the competition's history, driven by strong performances in Olympic sports and team competitions.[121] Stanford University has been the preeminent force among Pac-12 schools, capturing a record 26 Directors' Cup titles through the 2022-23 season, including 22 consecutive wins from 2001-02 to 2022-23, far surpassing all other programs.[122] This dominance reflects Stanford's depth, with 134 NCAA team championships contributing to high point totals in sports like women's swimming, men's volleyball, and track and field.[123] Other Pac-12 members, such as UCLA and USC, have also achieved elite status; UCLA finished second in 2014-15 with 1285.50 points, its best result in over a decade at the time, bolstered by national titles in women's water polo and softball.[124] USC secured runner-up honors in multiple years, including a near-miss in 2024-25. The conference's overall strength was evident in 2022-23, when five institutions—Stanford (1st), UCLA (7th), USC (9th), Oregon (18th), and Washington (23rd)—ranked in the top 25, supported by eight NCAA titles across Pac-12 programs that year.[121] Conference realignment in 2024 significantly impacted Pac-12 representation, with 10 of 12 members departing for the ACC, Big Ten, and Big 12, leaving only Oregon State and Washington State. Despite this, legacy Pac-12 schools maintained high rankings in the 2024-25 final standings, occupying four of the top 10 positions nationally and underscoring the enduring athletic infrastructure built within the conference. Texas claimed the overall title with 1255.25 points, but former Pac-12 programs USC (2nd, 1253.75 points), Stanford (3rd, 1251.00 points), and UCLA (5th, 1149.00 points) demonstrated continued elite performance across 78 national top-10 finishes in individual sports.[125]| School | National Rank | Points | New Conference (2024-25) |
|---|---|---|---|
| USC | 2 | 1253.75 | Big Ten |
| Stanford | 3 | 1251.00 | ACC |
| UCLA | 5 | 1149.00 | Big Ten |
| Oregon | 18 | 879.75 | Big Ten |
| California | 24 | 819.75 | ACC |
| Washington | 32 | 722.20 | Big Ten |
| Arizona State | 34 | 693.25 | Big 12 |
| Arizona | 43 | 571.75 | Big 12 |
| Utah | 60 | 423.50 | Big 12 |
| Colorado | 69 | 325.50 | Big 12 |
| Oregon State | 75 | 310.25 | Pac-12 |
| Washington State | 139 | 119.00 | Pac-12 |
Football
Division structure and scheduling
The Pac-12 Conference introduced a divisional structure for football in 2011 upon expanding to 12 members, splitting into the North Division (California, Oregon, Oregon State, Stanford, Washington, Washington State) and the South Division (Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, UCLA, USC, Utah).[127][128] This alignment aimed to preserve regional rivalries while facilitating a balanced schedule and culminating in a conference championship game between division winners.[127] Under this model, each team played a nine-game conference schedule: five protected games against divisional opponents annually, plus four cross-divisional matchups determined by a two-year rotating cycle to ensure equitable competition across the conference.[129] This structure remained in place through the 2022 season, promoting intra-divisional consistency while rotating inter-divisional contests to avoid overexposure to any single opponent.[129] In May 2022, the conference eliminated divisions effective for the 2023 season, aligning with NCAA changes that removed requirements for divisional alignments in championship games; instead, the top two teams based on conference record advanced to the title game, with each team still playing nine conference opponents selected via a similar rotating model.[130] Following the departure of 10 members after the 2023 season, the Pac-12 operated with only Oregon State and Washington State in 2024 and 2025, rendering traditional divisions obsolete. For 2024, the duo entered a one-year scheduling alliance with the Mountain West Conference, under a "7+1" model where each played six Mountain West opponents, one game against each other, and five non-conference games to form a 12-game slate.[94][131] This partnership was not extended into 2025 due to failed negotiations.[132] In 2025, Oregon State and Washington State independently scheduled 12-game slates without a formal conference structure, featuring a home-and-home series between them (Oregon State won 10-7 on November 1 at Reser Stadium; rematch pending November 29 at Gesa Field), plus games against future Pac-12 members like Fresno State (Oregon State loss 36-27 on September 6) and San Diego State (Washington State win 36-13 on September 6), and protected non-conference rivalries such as Oregon State vs. Wake Forest and Washington State vs. Washington (Washington win 59-24 on September 20). Coverage included partnerships with CBS (two games on main network), ESPN, and The CW.[133][134] This transitional approach bridges to the conference's expansion in 2026, when it will regain a multi-team format and revisit scheduling protocols.[133]All-time team records
The all-time team records for Pac-12 football encompass the overall historical performance of member institutions from the conference's inception through its evolution, including predecessors like the Pacific Coast Conference and Athletic Association of Western Universities. These records highlight the dominance of programs such as USC and Washington, which have amassed the highest win totals and winning percentages among current and former members. As the conference underwent significant realignment after the 2023 season—with most teams departing for other conferences—these figures capture the legacy of competition within the Pac-12 footprint up to that point. Among the 12 primary members, USC holds the distinction of the most successful program historically, with 873 wins and the highest winning percentage as of the end of the 2024 season, reflecting its 37 conference championships and multiple national titles. Other standout programs include Washington and Utah, both exceeding 700 wins, underscoring the West Coast's rich football tradition. Oregon State and Washington State represent the lower end in terms of winning percentage, though both have had eras of notable success, including bowl appearances and rivalries that defined the conference. The following table summarizes the all-time overall records for Pac-12 football teams as of the end of the 2024 season, ranked by winning percentage. These figures include all games played, not solely conference contests.[135]| Rank | Team | Wins-Losses-Ties | Winning Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | USC Trojans | 873-349-54 | .709 |
| 2 | Washington Huskies | 753-472-50 | .611 |
| 3 | Arizona State Sun Devils | 609-387-18 | .609 |
| 4 | Utah Utes | 645-488-31 | .568 |
| 5 | Stanford Cardinal | 669-497-49 | .570 |
| 6 | UCLA Bruins | 628-468-37 | .570 |
| 7 | Colorado Buffaloes | 682-528-35 | .562 |
| 8 | Oregon Ducks | 649-471-34 | .577 |
| 9 | California Golden Bears | 607-554-31 | .522 |
| 10 | Arizona Wildcats | 516-467-23 | .524 |
| 11 | Washington State Cougars | 557-581-46 | .489 |
| 12 | Oregon State Beavers | 499-605-36 | .454 |
Major rivalries
The Pac-12 Conference has long been defined by its intense football rivalries, many of which stem from geographic proximity and deep historical roots dating back over a century. These matchups, often involving in-state or regional foes, have shaped conference identities, influenced championship races, and drawn massive fan engagement across the West Coast. While conference realignment in the early 2020s disrupted some traditional games, the rivalries' legacies endure, with several protected in new scheduling models following the Pac-12's reformation in 2024.[136] One of the most storied is the USC-UCLA rivalry, known as the Crosstown Showdown or Battle for the Victory Bell, which began in 1929 and represents Los Angeles' intra-city divide. USC holds a 52-34-7 all-time edge (accounting for vacated wins), including a 19-13 victory in their most recent meeting on November 23, 2024; however, two USC wins from 2004-2005 were vacated due to NCAA sanctions. The series has produced eight games decided by three points or fewer since 2000, underscoring its competitiveness, and the winner claims the Victory Bell, rung by students across campuses. This annual Thanksgiving-week clash has national significance, often impacting bowl eligibility and Rose Bowl berths, with UCLA's longest streak of eight wins from 1991-1998 highlighting periods of Bruin dominance.[137] The Big Game between Stanford and California, dating to 1892, is the oldest rivalry on the West Coast and tied for the 10th-longest in FBS history, with 133 meetings as of 2025. Stanford leads 65-52-11 overall, though Cal has won the last four, including a 24-21 victory on November 23, 2024 that made the Bears bowl-eligible. The Axe trophy, a double-headed axe symbolizing the lumber heritage of both schools, is awarded to the winner, and the game has been decided by a touchdown or less 52 times, fostering intense Bay Area pride. Iconic moments include Cal's 1982 "The Play" five-lateral kickoff return for a 25-20 upset, and the rivalry's neutrality—alternating venues—has preserved its balance despite Stanford's recent edge in Pac-12 titles.[138][139][140] In the Pacific Northwest, the Apple Cup pits Washington against Washington State since 1900, with the Huskies leading 77-34-6; Washington reclaimed the trophy in 2025 with a 59-24 win on September 20, following WSU's 24-19 victory in 2024 that ended Washington's three-year streak. Named for Washington's apple industry since 1962 (previously the Governor's Trophy), the game highlights urban Seattle versus rural Pullman, with stakes often deciding the Pac-12 North title—Washington won six straight from 2016-2021, five by 15 or more points. The series has seen 118 meetings by 2025, emphasizing east-west Washington divides in culture and politics, and remains one of the conference's fiercest due to its annual scheduling and fan vitriol.[141][142][143] The Oregon-Oregon State series, formerly known as the Civil War from 1929 to 2020 (dropped due to associations with the U.S. Civil War and slavery), originated in 1894 as the in-state championship and now stands at 70-49-10 in Oregon's favor following their 41-7 win on September 20, 2025. The Ducks have dominated recently, winning 17 of the last 21, but Oregon State's 1998 victory capped a 10-1 season and remains a high-water mark for the Beavers. Played for the Platypus Trophy since 2022 (reflecting both state animals), the rivalry embodies urban Eugene versus rural Corvallis, with 10 ties and numerous close finishes—24 games decided by seven points or fewer—fueling statewide passion; it ranks seventh-most contested in FBS history.[144][145][146] The Oregon-Washington matchup, a cornerstone of Northwest football since 1900, sees Washington ahead 63-50-5, though Oregon has won eight of the last 11, including the 2024 regular-season finale (37-34). This border rivalry, part of the broader "Northwest Passage" with other regional games, has produced thrillers like Washington's six straight wins from 2019-2023 before Oregon's resurgence, often influencing Pac-12 North standings. With 118 meetings by 2025, it highlights academic and athletic competition between the states' flagship universities, drawing over 50,000 fans annually and amplifying regional tensions. The next meeting is scheduled for November 29, 2025.[147][148][149] Further south, the Territorial Cup between Arizona and Arizona State, the oldest rivalry trophy in college football (awarded since 1987 but tracing to 1899), has Arizona leading 50-50-1 overall after ASU's 49-7 win on November 30, 2024, though ASU holds a 45-30-1 edge since 1949. The in-state duel for desert bragging rights continues in the Big 12, with 100 meetings by 2025 emphasizing Tucson-Tempe divides; the winner claims the cup, symbolizing territorial heritage, and the series has seen 53 games decided by a touchdown or less. The 2025 game is scheduled for November 29.[150][151][152] Other notable rivalries include Utah-BYU (Holy War, 1896 onward; BYU leading 64-47-5 after 2024 win 13-3, continuing annually in Big 12) and emerging ones like Utah-USC, but the core in-state battles have defined the conference's football narrative, contributing to its "Conference of Champions" moniker through high-stakes drama and cultural impact.[153][154]Bowl game history
The Pac-12 Conference's bowl game history is deeply intertwined with the Rose Bowl, where the conference champion traditionally faced the Big Ten Conference champion from 1947 through 2022, establishing a legacy of high-profile postseason play.[26] Pac-12 teams hold an all-time record of 25-21-2 in the Rose Bowl as of the 2023 season, including eight consecutive appearances by USC from 2002 to 2009, during which the Trojans went 7-1. This tradition traces back to the game's inception in 1902, with the conference (formed in 1959 as the Athletic Association of Western Universities and claiming Pacific Coast Conference history from 1922) maintaining an automatic bid until the College Football Playoff era. Through the 2024 season—the final standalone year before full expansion—Pac-12 member institutions participated in 370 bowl games, achieving an overall record of 189 wins, 175 losses, and 6 ties for a .519 winning percentage (canceled games counted as appearances).[155] (adjusted for 2023-2024 results per NCAA data).[156] USC leads all teams with 34 bowl victories in 54 appearances, followed by Washington with 18 wins in 40 games and UCLA with 17 wins in 37 games.[26] Five current or former member schools maintain winning bowl records: Cal (.538), Oregon State (.538), Stanford (.538), USC (.630), and Utah (.708, the highest among active teams).[155]| Team | Appearances | Wins | Losses | Ties | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| USC | 54 | 34 | 19 | 1 | .641 |
| Washington | 40 | 18 | 20 | 2 | .475 |
| UCLA | 37 | 17 | 19 | 1 | .473 |
| Oregon | 31 | 15 | 16 | 0 | .484 |
| Arizona State | 30 | 12 | 17 | 1 | .414 |
| Utah | 24 | 17 | 7 | 0 | .708 |
| Stanford | 22 | 11 | 10 | 1 | .523 |
| Oregon State | 20 | 10 | 9 | 1 | .526 |
| Cal | 19 | 10 | 8 | 1 | .553 |
| Arizona | 23 | 9 | 14 | 0 | .391 |
| Washington State | 16 | 5 | 11 | 0 | .313 |
| Colorado | 29 | 10 | 19 | 0 | .345 |
All-Century selections
In 2015, the Pac-12 Networks unveiled the Pac-12 Football All-Century Team to honor the conference's 100 years of football excellence, dating back to the origins of its predecessor leagues in 1915. The team comprises 50 players and one coach, selected through ballots cast by 119 voters, including former players, coaches, and media members. USC dominated the selections with 25 representatives, followed by Arizona (5), Stanford (4), UCLA (4), Washington (3), California (3), Oregon (2), and Arizona State (2).[160][161] Stanford quarterback John Elway was named Offensive Player of the Century for his record-setting career, including 77 touchdown passes and a national championship in 1971. USC safety Ronnie Lott earned Defensive Player of the Century honors, recognized for his four interceptions and leadership on two national title teams in 1978 and 1979. USC's John McKay was selected as Coach of the Century, celebrated for guiding the Trojans to five national championships between 1962 and 1978.[160][161] The team spans offensive, defensive, and special teams positions, showcasing the conference's depth across eras. Below is the full roster:| Position | Players (School) |
|---|---|
| Quarterbacks | John Elway (Stanford), Marcus Mariota (Oregon), Jim Plunkett (Stanford), Andrew Luck (Stanford), Matt Leinart (USC) |
| Running Backs | Marcus Allen (USC), O.J. Simpson (USC), Charles White (USC), Reggie Bush (USC), Mike Garrett (USC) |
| Wide Receivers | Keyshawn Johnson (USC), Lynn Swann (USC), Marqise Lee (USC), J.J. Stokes (UCLA), Ken Margerum (Stanford) |
| Tight Ends | Tony Gonzalez (California), Charles Young (USC) |
| Offensive Line | Jonathan Ogden (UCLA), Ron Yary (USC), Tony Boselli (USC), Anthony Munoz (USC), Lincoln Kennedy (Washington), Brad Budde (USC), Randall McDaniel (Arizona State) |
| Defensive Ends | Tedy Bruschi (Arizona), Terrell Suggs (Arizona State), Willie McGinest (USC), Andre Carter (California), Jim Jeffcoat (Arizona State) |
| Defensive Tackles | Steve Emtman (Washington), Haloti Ngata (Oregon), Rob Waldrop (Arizona), Leonard Williams (USC), Ed White (California) |
| Linebackers | Junior Seau (USC), Jerry Robinson (UCLA), Ricky Hunley (Arizona), Richard Wood (USC), Chris Claiborne (USC) |
| Cornerbacks | Joey Browner (USC), Mel Renfro (Oregon), Chris McAlister (Arizona), Antoine Cason (Arizona) |
| Safeties | Ronnie Lott (USC), Kenny Easley (UCLA), Troy Polamalu (USC), Mark Carrier (USC) |
| Kicker | Jason Hanson (Washington State) |
| Punter | Tom Hackett (Utah) |
| Returner | Reggie Bush (USC) |
| Coach | John McKay (USC) |
Men's Basketball
Tournament achievements
The Pac-12 Conference has a storied history in the NCAA men's basketball tournament, with its member institutions collectively earning 217 appearances since the tournament's inception in 1939.[162] These teams have compiled a 309-212 record (.593 winning percentage) across 521 games, demonstrating consistent excellence and deep postseason runs.[162] The conference's programs have advanced to the Final Four 35 times, more than any other league, underscoring their dominance in producing elite contenders.[162] UCLA stands as the preeminent force, with 52 tournament appearances and a 115-45 record, including 19 Final Four trips that highlight eras of unparalleled success.[162] Under legendary coach John Wooden from 1964 to 1975, the Bruins achieved 10 consecutive Final Four appearances (1967-1976), a feat unmatched in NCAA history, fueled by stars like Lew Alcindor (now Kareem Abdul-Jabbar) and Bill Walton.[163] More recently, UCLA's 2007-08 squad, featuring Kevin Love and Russell Westbrook, reached the Final Four, blending veteran leadership with emerging talent to secure a No. 1 seed victory over Texas A&M in the Elite Eight.[163] Arizona has emerged as a modern powerhouse, boasting 35 appearances and a 58-34 tournament record, with two Final Four berths that include the 1988 run to the national semifinals and the 2001 appearance in the championship game.[162] Lute Olson's 1997 team, seeded fourth, exemplified the conference's resilience by defeating three higher seeds en route to the title game, showcasing a balanced attack led by Miles Simon and Mike Bibby.[163] In the 2010s, Arizona under Sean Miller made three consecutive Elite Eight appearances (2011, 2014-2015), advancing as a top seed each time and establishing the program as a perennial threat with defensive prowess and NBA-bound talents like Aaron Gordon and Kaleb Tarczewski.[163] Other Pac-12 schools have contributed significantly to the conference's tournament legacy. Oregon secured the inaugural NCAA title in 1939 and returned to the Final Four in 2017, where Dillon Brooks led a No. 3 seed to the national semifinals before falling to North Carolina.[162][163] California reached the 1959 championship game under coach Pete Newell, while Stanford's 2000-01 team, paced by Casey Jacobsen and Jason Collins, earned a No. 1 seed and advanced to the Final Four with a school-record 31 wins.[1][163] These achievements reflect the Pac-12's emphasis on player development and competitive depth, producing 16 national championships across its history.[1]National championships
The Pac-12 Conference's member institutions have secured 16 NCAA Division I men's basketball national championships, more than any other conference, showcasing the league's historical dominance in the sport.[164] UCLA holds the record with 11 titles, including a seven-year streak from 1967 to 1973 that remains unmatched in college basketball history.[164] These victories, primarily under coach John Wooden, highlighted innovative strategies like the zone press and fast-break offense, contributing to UCLA's perfect 30-0 records in 1964, 1967, 1972, and 1973.[164] UCLA's championship run began in 1964 with a 30-0 season, defeating Duke 98-83 in the final, and continued through 1965 (28-2, over Michigan), 1967-1973 (all undefeated except 1971 at 29-1), and 1975 (28-3, over Kentucky).[164] The 1995 title, under Jim Harrick, marked UCLA's return to glory with a 31-2 record and a 89-78 win over Arkansas, featuring standout performances from Ed O'Bannon, the tournament's most outstanding player.[164] Wooden's era emphasized team play and fundamentals, influencing modern coaching philosophies across the sport.[164] Beyond UCLA, other Pac-12 schools have claimed titles in the tournament's early years and late 20th century. Oregon won the inaugural 1939 championship (29-5) under Howard Hobson, defeating Ohio State 46-33 in the final and pioneering the high-post offense.[164] Stanford captured the 1942 crown (28-4) led by Everett Dean, edging Dartmouth 53-38 amid World War II disruptions.[164] Utah's 1944 victory (21-4) under Vadal Peterson came in a double-elimination format, with the Utes defeating Dartmouth twice, including a 42-40 overtime thriller in the championship game.[164] California triumphed in 1959 (25-4) coached by Pete Newell, who introduced the shuffle offense and beat West Virginia 71-70 on a last-second free throw by Gary Cunningham.[164] Arizona rounded out the Pac-12's successes with the 1997 title (25-9), guided by Lute Olson in a comeback 84-79 overtime win over Kentucky, powered by Miles Simon's 30-point Final Four performance.[164] These championships underscore the conference's depth, with five schools contributing to the total and spanning from the tournament's inception through the modern era.[164]| Year | School | Coach | Record | Final Opponent (Score) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1939 | Oregon | Howard Hobson | 29-5 | Ohio State (46-33) |
| 1942 | Stanford | Everett Dean | 28-4 | Dartmouth (53-38) |
| 1944 | Utah | Vadal Peterson | 21-4 | Dartmouth (42-40, OT) |
| 1959 | California | Pete Newell | 25-4 | West Virginia (71-70) |
| 1964 | UCLA | John Wooden | 30-0 | Duke (98-83) |
| 1965 | UCLA | John Wooden | 28-2 | Michigan (91-80) |
| 1967 | UCLA | John Wooden | 30-0 | Dayton (79-64) |
| 1968 | UCLA | John Wooden | 29-1 | North Carolina (78-55) |
| 1969 | UCLA | John Wooden | 29-1 | Purdue (92-72) |
| 1970 | UCLA | John Wooden | 28-2 | Jacksonville (80-69) |
| 1971 | UCLA | John Wooden | 29-1 | Villanova (68-62) |
| 1972 | UCLA | John Wooden | 30-0 | Florida State (81-76) |
| 1973 | UCLA | John Wooden | 30-0 | Memphis State (87-66) |
| 1975 | UCLA | John Wooden | 28-3 | Kentucky (92-85) |
| 1995 | UCLA | Jim Harrick | 31-2 | Arkansas (89-78) |
| 1997 | Arizona | Lute Olson | 25-9 | Kentucky (84-79, OT) |
NIT successes
The Pac-12 Conference has achieved notable success in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT), a prominent postseason basketball competition for teams not selected for the NCAA Tournament. Since the NIT's inception in 1938, Pac-12 member institutions (including historical affiliates) have secured six championships, demonstrating the conference's depth and competitiveness in men's basketball during eras when NCAA bids were limited. These victories span from the tournament's early years to the modern expanded format, with Stanford claiming the most titles among conference schools.[165] The conference's first NIT triumph came in 1940, when Colorado defeated Duquesne 51-40 in the final at Madison Square Garden, marking one of the early highlights for Western basketball programs. Seven years later, in 1947, Utah captured the title with a 49-45 victory over Kentucky, avenging a narrow loss in the previous year's semifinals and showcasing the Utes' resilience under coach Vadal Peterson. These early successes established the Pac-12's predecessors—then the Pacific Coast Conference—as a breeding ground for competitive squads.[165] UCLA broke a long drought for the conference in 1985, winning 65-62 against Indiana in the championship game, led by All-Tournament selection Reggie Miller's 19 points. The Bruins' victory highlighted their program's transition under coach Walt Hazzard following the John Wooden dynasty. Stanford then dominated the 1990s and 2010s, earning three championships: a 78-72 win over Oklahoma in 1991 (with Hank Gathers' tragic collapse in the semifinals adding emotional weight), a decisive 75-51 rout of Minnesota in 2012 under Johnny Dawkins, and a thrilling 66-64 overtime triumph against Miami in 2015, where Chasson Randle scored 19 points. These Stanford titles underscored the Cardinal's consistent postseason prowess.[165][166] Beyond championships, Pac-12 teams have reached the NIT final twice as runners-up in recent decades. Utah fell 87-81 to Purdue in 1974 and 82-66 to Penn State in 2018, with the latter appearance featuring a semifinal run that included a comeback win over Fresno State. Colorado also finished as runner-up in the inaugural 1938 tournament, losing 60-36 to Temple after advancing to the final. These near-misses, combined with frequent semifinal and quarterfinal appearances—such as Oregon's 2019 semifinal loss to Texas and Washington's State 2008 third-place finish—illustrate the conference's sustained impact on the NIT landscape.[165]| Year | Champion | Runner-Up | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1940 | Colorado | Duquesne | 51-40 |
| 1947 | Utah | Kentucky | 49-45 |
| 1985 | UCLA | Indiana | 65-62 |
| 1991 | Stanford | Oklahoma | 78-72 |
| 2012 | Stanford | Minnesota | 75-51 |
| 2015 | Stanford | Miami (FL) | 66-64 (OT) |
All-time conference records
The all-time conference records for Pac-12 men's basketball reflect the cumulative performance of member institutions in league play, tracing back to the formation of the Pacific Coast Conference (PCC) in 1916 and continuing through the modern Pac-12 era up to the 2023-24 season. These records exclude non-conference games and account for the evolving membership, including former teams like Idaho and Montana, which participated in early iterations of the conference. Dominance has historically been concentrated among a core group of programs, with UCLA leading in total victories due to its longevity and success across nearly a century of competition.[167] The following table summarizes the all-time conference standings, ranked by winning percentage, with Arizona's listed record reflecting unadjusted totals (an NCAA adjustment for vacated games yields 544 wins and a .672 percentage).[167]| Rank | Team | Years Active | Conference Titles | Wins | Losses | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona | 46 | 18 | 571 | 265 | .683 |
| 2 | UCLA | 97 | 32 | 998 | 516 | .659 |
| 3 | Colorado | 13 | 0 | 131 | 111 | .541 |
| 4 | Washington | 108 | 12 | 935 | 842 | .526 |
| 5 | USC | 102 | 7 | 782 | 763 | .506 |
| 6 | Stanford | 104 | 11 | 766 | 800 | .489 |
| 7 | California | 107 | 15 | 780 | 816 | .489 |
| 8 | Oregon | 101 | 8 | 806 | 877 | .479 |
| 9 | Utah | 13 | 0 | 114 | 127 | .473 |
| 10 | Oregon State | 103 | 12 | 808 | 902 | .473 |
| 11 | Arizona State | 46 | 0 | 378 | 455 | .454 |
| 12 | Washington State | 102 | 2 | 688 | 999 | .408 |
| 13 | Idaho | 40 | 2 | 195 | 369 | .346 |
| 14 | Montana | 8 | 0 | 15 | 58 | .205 |
Legacy and Impact
Olympic representation
The Pac-12 Conference has established itself as a dominant force in Olympic competition, with its member institutions consistently producing a disproportionate share of U.S. and international athletes across multiple sports. From track and field to swimming, rowing, and water polo, Pac-12 schools have fostered environments that nurture elite talent, contributing to national teams worldwide and amassing medals that underscore the conference's emphasis on Olympic-style disciplines.[168] In recent Summer Games, the conference's representation has been particularly impressive. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, 321 current, former, and future Pac-12 athletes competed, winning 55 medals (counting team efforts as one per group) in 12 sports, with Stanford and USC leading the haul.[168] At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Pac-12 affiliates topped all U.S. conferences with athletes earning 76 medals, including 43 golds, across swimming, track, and other events. Earlier, in the 2008 Beijing Games, the then-Pac-10 sent 259 athletes, coaches, and staff, securing 89 medals (15 gold, 12 silver, 62 other) and representing every member institution.[169] The 2024 Paris Olympics marked a poignant chapter amid the conference's realignment crisis and near-collapse, as its departing schools—now scattered to the Big Ten, Big 12, and others—continued the tradition. The 10 outbound institutions contributed 262 athletes to the Games.[170] Athletes affiliated with four California-based former members (Stanford, UC Berkeley, UCLA, and USC) alone won 89 medals, comprising over 70% of Team USA's total of 126 and ranking equivalent to a top-10 nation if counted separately.[171] Stanford achieved a record 39 medals (12 gold, 14 silver, 13 bronze) for any school in a single Olympics, highlighted by successes in swimming and artistic swimming.[172] Historically, Pac-12 institutions hold the top spots among U.S. universities for all-time Olympic medals, reflecting decades of investment in non-revenue sports. USC leads with 326 medals (153 gold, 96 silver, 77 bronze) from athletes in 30 sports representing 65 countries.[173] Stanford follows closely with over 300 medals, while UCLA and UC Berkeley add hundreds more, enabling the conference's schools to outpace other groups in cumulative Olympic success.[174] This legacy, built on facilities like Stanford's Avery Aquatic Center and USC's track programs, has positioned the Pac-12 as a key pipeline for Olympic excellence, even as its structure evolved.[168]Key facilities and venues
The Pac-12 Conference's key facilities and venues primarily consist of the on-campus football stadiums and basketball arenas affiliated with its member institutions, which as of 2025 include Oregon State and Washington State, with Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Utah State, and Texas State set to join in 2026, alongside Gonzaga as a non-football member focused on basketball.[41] These venues host conference championships, regular-season games, and other athletic events, reflecting the conference's emphasis on competitive environments in the western and southwestern United States. Many have undergone recent renovations to enhance fan experience and meet modern standards, contributing to the Pac-12's reputation for atmospheric college sports settings. Football stadiums form the cornerstone of Pac-12 facilities, with capacities ranging from approximately 25,000 to over 40,000 seats, accommodating the intensity of FBS-level play. Notable examples include Boise State's Albertsons Stadium, renowned for its iconic blue synthetic turf surface installed in 1986, which creates a distinctive home-field advantage; the stadium seats 36,387 and has hosted undefeated conference seasons for the Broncos.[175] Fresno State's Valley Children's Stadium, with a capacity of 40,727, stands as the largest among incoming venues and is celebrated for its raucous "Dog Pound" student section, fostering one of the conference's most intimidating atmospheres.[176] Oregon State's Reser Stadium, recently renovated at a cost of $161 million and seating 35,548, features modern amenities like premium seating and improved sightlines, marking a significant upgrade for the Beavers' program.[177]| Institution | Football Stadium | Location | Capacity | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boise State | Albertsons Stadium | Boise, ID | 36,387 | Blue turf; renovated north end zone (2010–2012)[175] |
| Colorado State | Canvas Stadium | Fort Collins, CO | 36,500 | Sustainable design; opened 2017 with $220 million investment[178] |
| Fresno State | Valley Children's Stadium | Fresno, CA | 40,727 | Largest in conference; strong home record since 1980 opening[176] |
| Oregon State | Reser Stadium | Corvallis, OR | 35,548 | $161M remodel (2017–2023); enhanced video and audio systems[177] |
| San Diego State | Snapdragon Stadium | San Diego, CA | 35,000 | Multi-purpose; opened 2022, expandable for concerts[179] |
| Texas State | UFCU Stadium | San Marcos, TX | 28,388 | Recent expansions (2011–2025); hosts Bobcats since 1981[180] |
| Utah State | Maverik Stadium | Logan, UT | 25,513 | Elevated at 4,700 ft; FieldTurf surface since 2008[181] |
| Washington State | Martin Stadium | Pullman, WA | 32,952 | Renovated multiple times (1975–2012); known for Apple Cup rivalry games |