Texas State University has officially accepted an invitation to join the Pac-12 Conference, a historic milestone for the Bobcats and a big shift in the college sports landscape.
Beginning with the 2026-27 season, Texas State will become a full member of the newly restructured Pac-12, joining universities like Boise State, Colorado State, Gonzaga, and Washington State. The move will place Texas State as the flagship Pac-12 representative in Texas, which the university hopes will boost its national profile both on and off the field.
“This is a historic moment for TXST and Bobcat Athletics,” said TXST President Kelly Damphousse in a press release announcing the transition. “Joining the Pac-12 is more than an athletic move – it is a declaration of our rising national profile, our commitment to excellence, and our readiness to compete and collaborate with some of the most respected institutions in the country.”
The university’s athletic program has experienced notable growth in recent years, marked by increased national visibility, record-setting football attendance, and a string of Sun Belt Conference championships across various men’s and women’s sports. In 2024 alone, the Bobcats set attendance records and won five conference titles.
With more than $149 million invested in athletic facilities since 2022, including the state-of-the-art Weisman Football Performance Center, Texas State has demonstrated a renewed commitment to competing in Division 1 sports.
Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould welcomed Texas State as a new member of the conference, mentioning the university’s strong leadership and vision for its future.
“It is a new day in college sports and the most opportune time to launch a new league that is positioned to succeed in today’s landscape with student-athletes in mind. Under great leadership from Dr. Kelly Damphousse, Don Coryell and excellent head coaches, Texas State has shown a commitment to competing and winning at the highest level as well as to providing student-athletes with a well-rounded college experience academically, athletically and socially,” Gould said.
A celebratory event is planned for July 7 at Texas State, where university leaders will outline their vision under the new Pac-10 era.