Big 12 Basketball: Top 5 candidates to join league in potential realignment
By Joey Loose
Honorable Mentions
Arizona & Arizona State
How fascinating would it be to watch Arizona and Kansas play each other every season? How exciting would annual matchups between Bobby Hurley and the other Big 12 coaches be? There’s a low likelihood that the Arizona schools will depart the Pac-12, but it’s a fascinating dream scenario.
Colorado
After less than a decade in the Pac-12, why would Colorado return to the Big 12? That’s a legitimate question that would have to be answered, but it’s a maneuver that would make sense, especially if Colorado administrators are dissatisfied with their time in the new conference. Either way, it’s probably a pipe dream at this point.
San Diego State
A consistent football program and an impressive basketball program are boasted by the Aztecs, though San Diego State would geographically be a better fit for the Pac-12 if they ever chose to expand. There would certainly be an adjustment, but this move is not far-fetched and they’d compete in basketball pretty quickly.
Tulsa
Tulsa has bounced around between conferences these past few decades, but would they be ready for a power conference? The bigger issue is that the Oklahoma schools would likely have an issue with their inclusion. They’ve been successful in basketball in the AAC, but would it translate to the Big 12 stage?
Wichita State
From a geographic and basketball standpoint, this would be a fantastic move for both Wichita State and the Big 12, but there are a few reasons why it will never happen. The Shockers do not have a football program, and that’s the most important sport in this conference. They would also certainly be rejected by the Kansas schools.