Seattle University Rejoins West Coast Conference
SEATTLE – After a 45-year absence from the West Coast Conference (WCC), Seattle University has officially returned as a member as of Tuesday.
Seattle U was part of the WCC during the 1970s but left in 1980 when the institution exited NCAA Division I athletics, becoming an NAIA Division II member. As the university embarked on its journey back to Division I 15 years ago, it made no secret of its desire to rejoin the WCC.
Instead of the WCC, the Redhawks found themselves in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). In May 2024, it was announced that both Seattle U and fellow WAC institution Grand Canyon would join the WCC on July 1, 2025.
“When we re-entered Division I athletics in 2010, our goal was to regain membership in the West Coast Conference,” said Seattle University President Eduardo Peñalver at the announcement. “Today marks the fruition of that goal. The fit is ideal geographically for Seattle University and aligns perfectly with the mission of the WCC schools.”
The transition will enhance Seattle U’s men’s basketball competition, as they join basketball powerhouses like Gonzaga (which will move to the Pac-12 next year), Saint Mary’s, and an improving San Francisco team. This season, Washington State and Oregon State will also compete in the WCC.
Stu Jackson, WCC commissioner and Seattle U alumnus, voiced his enthusiasm about the Redhawks’ return. “From my commissioner’s perspective, we are thrilled to welcome them back to the West Coast Conference,” Jackson stated. “Seattle U is now part of a group of institutions that reflect similar values and missions, making them an excellent addition to our conference.”
Jackson shared his personal connection to Seattle University, expressing gratitude for the opportunity he received to assist the men’s basketball coaching staff after transferring from Oregon. He emphasized confidence that Seattle U will contend for conference titles across all sports, highlighting the strengths of the university’s athletic programs.
