The possibility of Gonzaga making the move to the Big 12 conference is not merely a fleeting idea but very much alive, according to recent developments. Conference commissioner Brett Yormark's visit to Spokane, where he met with Bulldogs' head coach Mark Few, has reaffirmed the potential for this significant shift, as confirmed by Gonzaga Nation on Friday.

Yormark's journey to the Inland Northwest followed his recent statements at the Big 12 women's basketball media day, where he clarified that there is currently no immediate action on the matter. He emphasized a commitment to exploring options that bring value to the Big 12 membership. Yormark's vision reportedly entails Gonzaga's participation in the 2024-25 season, although several league members had pressing inquiries related to revenue sharing and scheduling that would necessitate resolution between Yormark and Gonzaga.

Notably, the idea of sharing TV revenue with a non-football school faced resistance from some within the league. However, Yormark's strategy to "create value" revolves around the concept of having separate TV contracts for Big 12 football and basketball. The media rights agreement with ESPN and Fox allows for this separation in the upcoming deal, set to take effect in 2031. Currently, the Big 12 is revising its media arrangement with regard to revenue distribution as it prepares to welcome Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah in 2024.

Amidst these deliberations, Yormark received substantial support to explore Gonzaga's inclusion from select conference athletic directors and presidents. In a subsequent development, college basketball insider Andy Katz reported that momentum is shifting favorably towards the Big 12 welcoming the Zags. PRCA Standings