It’s not just a rumor anymore– the announcement is in, that the University of Colorado really is re-joining the Big 12 Conference in 2024…
(CU Rejoins Big 12 wrap :49)
The Big 12’s press release on CU coming again to the league was only 2 words long– “They’re back.” The return of the Buffs to the conference they were part of for 63 years as the Big 8 and Big 12 is seen as very beneficial to the school, its athletes, and fans. Athletic Director Rich George says it’s simple…
230728 R George- better visibility :07 Q:…in the future…
Better nationwide visibility in the Big 12 is said to be part of the deal, enhanced by what’s being called the “Prime Effect” of George hiring NFL legend Deion “Prime Time” Sanders as the Buffs’ new head football coach. Immediately after that was announced in December, CU booked 3 consecutive games that’ll have them playing on ESPN or Fox Sports. And Colorado’s spring game was even on ESPN, before a capacity crowd. The school’s expected to reap a media rights payday of more than 31 million dollars next year, when it officially rejoins the Big 12.
The vote by the CU Board of Regents was unanimous, and was reportedly completed in only a few minutes. Colorado returns to the league it helped start, and was a member of for 63 years, before moving to the Pac-12 in 2010. Some observers called it inevitable, as the Pac-12’s media rights deal was expiring with no word on a new one, while the Big 12 is guaranteeing each of its schools more than 31 million dollars a year.
Athletic Director Rich George…
230728 R George- multiple revenue streams :14 Q:…conference…
Chancellor Phil DiStefano (dee-steh-FAH-no)…
230728 P DiStefano- more opportunities :11 Q:…making the change…
230728 Student Reax to Big 12 Return :18 Q:…than in the past…