Utah Valley University Joins Big West Conference Amid Conference Realignment
In a significant move within collegiate athletics, Utah Valley University (UVU) announced its transition to the Big West Conference starting in the 2026-27 season. This decision was confirmed by the Big West on Wednesday morning, marking a departure from the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).
Big West Commissioner Dan Butterly expressed enthusiasm for UVU’s addition, highlighting the university’s reputation for competitive excellence and its rapidly expanding athletic program. "Their addition expands our geographic footprint into a vibrant and strategically significant region while elevating competition across the board," stated Butterly.
UVU, which currently sponsors 14 Division I sports, will compete in various disciplines, including men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, and track and field, among others. Notably, wrestling will still be part of the Big 12 Conference.
UVU President Dr. Astrid S. Tuminez called the move a milestone for the university’s 47,000 students, 125,000 alumni, and nearly 400 student-athletes. “We look forward to competing and growing in a new and dynamic environment,” she remarked.
Athletic Director Dr. Jared Sumsion also voiced optimism about the move, noting the Big West’s proud history of success at the Division I level.
This realignment can be traced back to significant changes in the landscape of college athletics, notably Texas and Oklahoma’s switch from the Big 12 to the SEC, which set off a chain reaction of conference realignments across the country.
With UVU’s entry into the Big West, the conference now welcomes its 11th member, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in Wolverine athletics.
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