The Big Ten’s potential expansion targets include four current Pac-12 members, according to multiple reports.
Oregon and Washington are being considered if the league grows from 16 to 18 schools. Cal and Stanford would also be considered if the Big Ten balloons to 20 members, per the report.
The Big Ten didn’t confirm the talks but said in a statement to ESPN that commissioner Tony Petitti has kept conference members updated on all developments.
“Big Ten Conference is still focused on integration of USC and UCLA, but it’s also commissioner’s job to keep conference chancellors and presidents informed about new developments as they occur,” the statement read.
Discussions are said to be in the “very early stages” and no decisions about expansion are considered imminent.
The Big Ten welcomes USC and UCLA as its 15th and 16th members in 2024, departures that have clouded the future of the Pac-12.
Colorado voted last week to leave the Pac-12 for the Big 12, and there is speculation that Arizona, Arizona State and Utah could follow.
According to Yahoo Sports, a group of four Big Ten university presidents began preliminary discussions Wednesday.
–Field Level Media
