Mountain West Secures Future: Seven Full Members Sign Memorandum to Remain Through 2032

The Mountain West Conference (MWC) has secured a significant commitment from its seven remaining full members to remain with the league through 2032, ensuring stability amid ongoing realignment in college athletics. This pivotal decision comes at a time when UNLV and Air Force, previously prime candidates for expansion into other conferences, have chosen to reaffirm their dedication to the MWC. 

Gloria Nevarez, the Mountain West Commissioner, emphasized the importance of this agreement in a statement. She stated, "Our immediate priority was solidifying the membership of the Mountain West. Now our focus turns to our collective future on behalf of our student-athletes. The agreements announced today mark a historic moment for the Mountain West and provide much-needed stability and clarity as the world of intercollegiate athletics continues to evolve rapidly. We are excited about our future and are executing our next steps in expanding the Mountain West. We will continue to prioritize the student-athlete experience and do all we can to support our institutions as they compete at the highest levels of intercollegiate athletics."

How did the deal come about?

In a noteworthy financial move to encourage UNLV and Air Force's continued participation, the Mountain West is anticipated to distribute a bonus of at least $25 million to each school. This financial incentive is derived from the funds owed by Boise State, Colorado State, Utah State, Fresno State, and San Diego State for their decision to exit the Mountain West's grant of rights in order to join the Pac-12 on July 1, 2026. The allocation of distribution payment percentages has also been announced, with Air Force and UNLV slated to receive 24.5%, while Nevada, New Mexico, San José State, and Wyoming will receive 11.5%. Hawaii will receive 5%.This financial maneuver not only reinforces the MWC's commitment to its member institutions but also underscores the conference's proactive approach in navigating the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics.

UNLV, while solidifying its commitment to the MWC, also expressed aspirations for future endeavors. Athletic director Eric Harper articulated the university's long-term vision, stating, "After a thorough evaluation of all options, at this time the best choice for UNLV is to remain a member of the Mountain West. We are a charter member of the conference, have had a great experience throughout its history and are excited to continue moving forward. The league is a genuine brand and an established product. Increased revenues are a vital factor. As we look ahead and continue our ascent as an athletics department, this also gives us necessary flexibility as we pursue our future goal of joining an autonomous (Power Four) conference.”

The MWC currently comprises seven football members, including Hawaii. In order to maintain its recognition as a conference by the NCAA, the MWC must reach a minimum of eight full members. This designation holds significant weight, particularly concerning eligibility for one of the five automatic berths in the impending 12-team College Football Playoff field. The concerted effort to secure member commitments underscores the importance of meeting this requirement and ensuring the MWC's continued status and viability on the national stage.