A New Chapter for West Coast Basketball
The Pac-12 men's and women's basketball tournaments are set to return to Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, reviving a tradition that has defined the conference's showcase for over a decade.
The announcement came on Wednesday, signaling the official relaunch of the league with seven new institutions joining the fold, a move that underscores the conference's ambition to rebuild its brand and competitive edge.
Commissioner Teresa Gould emphasized that the return to the glittering Strip is more than nostalgia; it reflects the resilience of the league's teams and the allure of its brands, which have attracted a fresh wave of partners and fans.
The shift follows a turbulent period that saw several original members depart, leaving only Oregon State and Washington State from the previous lineup, while the new affiliates — Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, Gonzaga, San Diego State, Texas State and Utah State — now bring a diverse mix of talent and market reach.
The upcoming tournaments will feature nine full‑time members and 12 affiliate participants, promising a packed schedule that blends established powerhouses with rising programs, all under the bright lights of Las Vegas.
The decision to anchor the events at the MGM Grand, a venue that hosted the conference from 2013 to 2016, ties the present revival to a shared history that fans will recognize.
With the conference now boasting a refreshed roster and a renewed competitive spirit, analysts expect the tournaments to serve as a litmus test for the league's future trajectory, potentially reshaping its identity on a national stage.