In a landmark decision that marks a new chapter for Fresno State, the Pac-12 Conference Board of Directors has unanimously voted to admit Fresno State, along with Boise State University, Colorado State University and San Diego State University, into the Pac-12 Conference.
The addition of these four distinguished institutions will take effect on July 1, 2026, with competition beginning in the 2026-27 academic year. This expansion unites Fresno State with Oregon State University and Washington State University to drive innovation and growth in both athletics and academics.
“Joining the Pac-12 Conference is a transformative moment for Fresno State,” said Garrett Klassy, Fresno State’s Director of Athletics. “This move not only elevates our national profile but also brings tremendous opportunities for our student-athletes to compete at the highest level. We are committed to upholding the values and traditions of both Fresno State and the Pac-12 while embracing the innovative future ahead. Together with our new conference peers, we will continue to grow, succeed and lead in both athletics and academics. The Red Wave is ready for this historic journey.”
Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould and the conference board of directors strategically evaluated each university’s application using five prioritized measures and established criteria, which included academics and athletics performance; media and brand evaluation; commitment to athletics success; geography and logistics; and culture and student-athlete welfare.
“For over a century, the Pac-12 Conference has been recognized as a leading brand in intercollegiate athletics,” Gould said. “We will continue to pursue bold, cutting-edge opportunities for growth and progress to best serve our member institutions and student-athletes. I am thankful to our board for their efforts to welcome Boise State University, Colorado State University, California State University, Fresno, and San Diego State University to the conference. An exciting new era for the Pac-12 Conference begins today.”
This alignment of values and aspirations positions Fresno State to elevate its impact on the national stage. “Fresno State has always been a university of opportunity and grit, and joining the Pac-12 Conference reflects our dynamic vision for the future of our Valley,” said University President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval. “This historic move both enhances our competitiveness on the field and further amplifies our academic prestige, advancing our mission of empowering students to succeed and lead.”
With Oregon State and Washington State continuing to compete as part of the Pac-12 through the 2025-26 season, the new six-member alliance sets the stage for future conference expansion and innovations that will shape the collegiate landscape for decades to come.