In what is expected to be a zero-week for major NCAA conference realignment, especially for Division I programs located in the western United States, Monday kicked off festivities with the loudest non-stories we’ve heard yet.
First, four of the top targets for conferences seeking expansion, Memphis, Tulane, South Florida, and UTSA all agreed to stay and continue building the AAC in spite of being viewed as top targets of the rebuilt Pac-12. Of the four, only Tulane (women) has a swimming & diving program.
“Together, we are committed to continuing to build the American brand, exploring new opportunities for exposure and value, and developing innovative economic resources–all in service of our student-athletes. While we acknowledge receiving interest in our institutions from other conferences, we firmly believe that it is in our individual and collective best interests to uphold our commitment to each other.”
The conference is reportedly exploring private-equity, new …