Hey folks! Get ready for an action-packed basketball season in the Big 12 conference! With Texas and Oklahoma heading to the SEC, the Big 12 is shaking things up by introducing a 20-game conference schedule for men’s basketball and an 18-game schedule for women’s basketball. But that’s not all, we’ve got some exciting new teams joining us from the Pac-12: Arizona, Arizona State, Utah, and former Big 12 member Colorado. This expansion brings some challenges in terms of scheduling and travel, as the league now stretches across all four time zones. Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark is determined to prioritize scheduling and travel, making sure it’s a smooth ride for all teams.
Yormark shared his plans at the basketball media days, which were held at the T-Mobile Center. This season, the center will host both the men’s and women’s conference tournaments for the first time ever. Yormark revealed that a 20-game schedule for men’s basketball and an 18-game schedule for women’s basketball are on the horizon. And let’s not forget about football! Yormark and his team are working hard to create a balanced and exciting schedule for the football season as well.
When it comes to historic matchups and rivalries, Yormark emphasized their importance. He hinted that the Territorial Cup between Arizona and Arizona State is likely to continue, as these matchups hold a special place in the hearts of fans. However, nothing has been set in stone just yet.
Now, here’s an interesting tidbit: the men’s basketball teams will play two more conference games than the women’s teams. This is due to the preferences of the Big 12 coaches and the fact that the women’s conference tournament will take place a week before the men’s championship. But don’t worry, the women’s teams will still bring their A-game!
The Big 12 is doubling down on basketball, especially with the addition of powerhouse team Arizona next season. Yormark revealed that the league has plans to play games internationally starting from the 2023-24 season. They’re also exploring alternative broadcasting and streaming options to engage younger audiences. According to Yormark, the key to successful streaming is volume, and Big 12 basketball has plenty of depth to offer.
The Big 12 has consistently ranked at the top of KenPom’s conference ranking for the past decade. With teams like Baylor and Kansas, who have won two of the last three national championships, the Big 12 is a force to be reckoned with. Yormark believes that basketball is not only a great source of entertainment but also a catalyst for international growth. He even considered the future of college basketball during TV negotiations, resulting in a lucrative deal with ESPN and Fox Sports.
Now, let’s talk expansion. Yormark didn’t give away any secrets, but he did mention that if an opportunity arises to strengthen the conference, he’s all ears. While there’s nothing imminent, he’s always open to exploring options that will benefit the Big 12 in the short and long term.
Lastly, Yormark defended the Big 12 as the premier basketball conference in the nation. When UConn coach Dan Hurley claimed that the Big East was the best conference, Yormark respectfully disagreed. He pointed to the Big 12’s impressive ratings, tournament success, and overall depth as evidence of its superiority. It’s clear that Yormark is proud of the Big 12 and its standing in the basketball world.
So, basketball fans, get ready for an exciting season ahead! The Big 12 is bringing the heat with a jam-packed schedule, new teams, and a commitment to growing the sport. Let’s cheer on our favourite teams and enjoy the thrill of college basketball!