FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN/KMJ) — Fresno State is officially joining the Pac-12 conference in 2026, the university has announced.
The Bulldogs, along with Boise State, San Diego State, and Colorado State, will officially become members of the conference on July 1, 2026.
“Fresno State has always been a university of opportunity and grit, and joining the Pac-12 Conference reflects our dynamic vision for the future of our Valley,” said University President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval. “This historic move both enhances our competitiveness on the field and further amplifies our academic prestige, advancing our mission of empowering students to succeed and lead.”
The Pac-12 has been looking to regroup following the departure of 10 teams to various college football conferences. Currently, the only schools in the conference are Washington State and Oregon State.
“Joining the Pac-12 Conference is a transformative moment for Fresno State,” said Garrett Klassy, Fresno State’s Director of Athletics in a press release.
The conference is now working to rebuild to the NCAA’s minimum of eight schools by July of 2026.
“We are thrilled to share some historic news for our university! Fresno State has been officially invited to join the prestigious Pac-12 Conference, effective July 1, 2026, along with Boise State University, Colorado State University and San Diego State University. This milestone reflects the strength of Bulldog athletics, the loyal following of the Red Wave, the excellence of our academic programs and the dynamic energy of our Valley”, said Fresno State President Saul Jimenz-Sandoval in a news release.
With Oregon State and Washington State continuing to compete as part of the Pac-12 through the 2025-26 season, the new six-member alliance sets the stage for future conference expansion and innovations that will shape the collegiate landscape for decades to come.
