Texas State joins cougs in Pac-12 conference

SAN MARCOS, Texas – On Monday, the Pac-12 conference announced that the Texas State Bobcats are joining the Pac-12 conference, beginning in the 2026 season. They will be the conference’s ninth team.  

“We are extremely excited to welcome Texas State as a foundational member of the new Pac-12," said Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould. “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.” 

Gould complimented Texas State athletics' dedication to not only athletic success, but academic success and an overall great collegiate experience for student athletes.  

“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. We look forward to seeing the Bobcats' future trajectory continue to shine big and bright,” Gould said.  

According to a statement by Washington State Athletics, Texas State joins Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, Gonzaga, Oregon State, San Diego State, Utah State and Washington State as nine foundational members of the new Pac-12, with the league's official launch set for July 1, 2026. The Bobcats will join as a full member of the new Pac-12, participating in all conference sports. 

The conference now meets the FBS’s requirements with eight football teams playing.  

“We're excited to welcome Texas State to the Pac-12,” said WSU President Elizabeth Cantwell. “It's a perfect match; two proud universities with deep roots in education, strong school spirit, and vibrant college towns at the heart of it all. From Bobcat Build to Cougar Pride, our traditions reflect communities that come together, show up, and move forward. Here's to new rivalries, shared values, and a future full of unforgettable moments.” 

According to a statement by Texas State Athletics, this is a transformative milestone in the university's athletic and academic journey. After being offered a formal invitation, the Bobcats received a unanimous vote to be admitted into the conference. According to Texas State President Kelly Damphousse, this transition to 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. Our acceptance into the Pac-12 affirms the strength of our academic vision, our commitment to providing access to a Texas State degree, the momentum of our athletic programs, and the ambition that defines this institution,” she said.  

The Bobcats compete in 16 varsity sports at the NCAA Division I FBS level. The program is experiencing an era of unprecedented momentum, driven by strategic investments, competitive success, and a growing national profile, according to a statement by Texas State Athletics.  

In the past three years, the Bobcats have solidified its place as a rising powerhouse in collegiate athletics, capturing the Sun Belt Conference Commissioner's Cup three of the last four years and winning back-to-back bowl games, according to their press release.  

“We are not joining the Pac-12 to simply participate; we are joining to compete, contribute and win championships,” Damphousse said. “The Pac-12 has a proud and storied tradition of excellence and TXST is honored to be a foundational member university helping to write the next chapter.” 

    The Pac-12 Conference has announced its newest member, the Texas State Bobcats. All of the Bobcats athletics will be making the move to the Pac-12 in 2026.