Grand Canyon’s recent decision to retract its commitment to the West Coast Conference and move to the Mountain West in the coming years highlights that realignment in college sports remains a constant process.
As the new college basketball season tips off, here’s a look at mid-major teams joining new conferences this year.
ASUN
West Georgia: The Wolves join the ASUN this season, moving up from last year’s Division II Gulf South Conference.
Conference USA
Kennesaw State: Following Jacksonville State and Liberty’s departures last year, the Owls are the latest ASUN team to join Conference USA. Under former coach Amir Abdur Rahim’s leadership, the program was revitalized, making Kennesaw State the third ASUN team in recent years to make this move.
MAAC
Merrimack: After a strong showing last season, narrowly missing the NCAA Tournament, the Warriors will compete in the MAAC for the 2024-25 season.
Sacred Heart: Like Merrimack, Sacred Heart leaves the Northeast Conference and will also compete in the MAAC.
NEC
Mercyhurst: Formerly a Division II team, the Lakers join the NEC this season, leaving the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference.
Southland
Stephen F. Austin: Returning to its longtime home in the Southland Conference after a stint in the Western Athletic Conference, the Lumberjacks return to familiar territory, where they’ve competed since 1984.
Texas-Rio Grande Valley: Also leaving the WAC, the Vaqueros join the Southland with hopes of earning their first NCAA Tournament bid in the near future.
West Coast Conference
Washington State: Following their recent NCAA Tournament appearance, the Cougars join the competitive WCC after the significant changes impacting the Pac-12.
Oregon State: Also affected by the Pac-12 realignment, the Beavers join the WCC alongside Washington State.
