The recent upheaval within the Pac-12 has cast uncertainty over the fate of several of its prominent events in Las Vegas.
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While the Pac-12 men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, along with the football championship game, are set to unfold as planned in Las Vegas in the upcoming year, the course of events beyond that point remains uncertain, according to statements made by Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority President and CEO, Steve Hill, on Tuesday.
While a Pac-12 spokesperson confirmed that the conference’s scheduled events would proceed in Las Vegas for the current season, any future plans are yet to be disclosed.
The landscape for the annual Las Vegas Bowl, in particular, is also anticipated to shift. Currently, the LVCVA holds a contract with ESPN for the Las Vegas Bowl until the 2025 season.
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Traditionally, one of the participating teams in the Las Vegas Bowl is a Pac-12 representative, while the other spot is alternated annually between the SEC and Big Ten conferences.
The potential departure of a prestigious entity like the Pac-12 would certainly present a challenge, acknowledged Hill. However, he emphasized the burgeoning status of Las Vegas as a sports hub, which is likely to attract new prospects in the future.
“It’s disheartening to witness the current changes, given our extensive partnership with the Pac-12,” Hill expressed.
“While I understand that schools must make decisions that align with their best interests and change is inevitable, it’s still a bit of a somber moment.
Considering the conference’s century-long legacy, we’ve been at the heart of their championships for a significant period. It’s not necessarily disappointing, but adapting to these shifts can be difficult.”
As of Tuesday afternoon, announcements have been made by UCLA, USC, Arizona, Arizona State, Oregon, Washington, Utah, and Colorado regarding their exit from the Pac-12, effective from the following year.
Consequently, Washington State, Oregon State, Stanford, and Cal are the remaining institutions within the conference.
Since 2013 and 2019, Las Vegas has successfully hosted both the men’s and women’s Pac-12 conference basketball tournaments, respectively.
Additionally, Allegiant Stadium has been the home of the Pac-12 football championship game for the past two years, with plans to continue in December.
The remarkable success of these events is evident, drawing impressive attendance figures of 45,856 fans in 2021 and 55,863 in 2022, as reported by the Las Vegas Stadium Authority.
While acknowledging the changing dynamics, Hill remains optimistic about Las Vegas’ strong appeal and asserts that all the essential components are in place to sustain these events, even amid a shifting landscape.
In the midst of the current whirlwind of conference realignment, Erick Harper’s sole focus remains resolute: he is committed to prioritizing UNLV’s best interests.
This extends to its student-athletes, dedicated fans, proud alumni, and the vibrant community that supports the institution.
“We cannot reach an informed decision until we possess a comprehensive understanding of all available options and information,” asserted Harper, who serves as UNLV’s athletic director.
Anticipate a resolution in the near future; the landscape of this situation shifts at a rapid pace.
The Pac-12, as it has existed, has undergone a seismic shift.
You’ll check back here regularly to stay updated on the news.
