Tulsa's conference future may clear up soon

Coach Bill Lewis · January 16, 2013

University of Tulsa officials report that the university still has not received an invitation to switch membership from Conference USA to the Big East or the Mountain West Conference.

However, sources indicate that TU's conference options - if there are options - soon may be clarified.

If San Diego State decides to stay in the Mountain West instead of becoming a football-only member of the Big East, there seems to exist the possibility that TU would be invited to join the Big East as an all-sports member.

Boise State already executed an about-face, deciding to stay in the Mountain West instead of proceeding with a plan to join the Big East. San Diego State also accepted a Big East invitation, but reportedly now is wavering. Jan. 31 is the decision deadline.

If San Diego State stays in the Mountain West, the Big East could extend to TU a membership opportunity. And if SDSU remains committed to a Big East move, the Mountain West might stand pat at 11 schools - or could be in the market for an additional member.

During a period of at least the past two months - and again last week, it is believed - TU President Steadman Upham and interim athletic director Kevan Buck had discussions with officials from the Mountain West, Big East and Conference USA (the Golden Hurricane's conference since 2005).

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