Possible Early Entry for Grand Canyon in Mountain West Conference

Could the Mountain West conference send San Diego State’s basketball team to face Grand Canyon as a farewell gesture? There’s growing discussion among the remaining seven Mountain West members about possibly granting one of their new additions an early entry into the conference.

Grand Canyon currently isn’t affiliated with any conference for the 2025-26 season and has expressed its eagerness to join the Mountain West sooner than the planned date. The school had previously stated that it would join by July 1, 2026, but hinted at possibly joining earlier if allowed by conference rules.

As of last week, the Mountain West membership officially decreased from 12 to 7 as San Diego State, Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, and Utah State withdrew. This change leaves the remaining schools with the sole voting power on any modifications to conference membership.

While the five departing institutions are reportedly opposed to Grand Canyon’s early inclusion, the remaining members may be open to negotiations. This is particularly true if GCU offers financial benefits for their earlier entry into the conference.

Logistical issues also arise with Grand Canyon’s potential early inclusion. The Mountain West’s women’s volleyball schedule has been finalized, with league play starting in September. However, since GCU doesn’t have a football team, arrangements for men’s basketball could be adjusted more easily.

The situation is further complicated by ongoing legal disputes between the Mountain West and the Pac-12 over significant exit fees. Despite this, GCU coaches continue to assure recruits that they will be joining the Mountain West in the 2025-26 season, indicating strong optimism for a swift transition.

For now, though, formal talks on this matter have not progressed, and any final decisions will likely await the conclusion of current legal negotiations.