The Big Sky Conference announced that Southern Utah University and Utah Tech University will officially join the league as full members beginning in July 2026. The expansion will take effect at the start of the 2026-27 academic year, increasing the total number of full conference members to 11.
The move brings both institutions, located in Cedar City and St. George, into a conference that also includes Weber State, Idaho, Idaho State, Montana, Montana State, Northern Arizona, Northern Colorado, Portland State, and Eastern Washington.
C. Scott Green, president of the University of Idaho and chair of the Big Sky Presidents' Council, stated that the conference welcomes the two rising universities during a period of significant change in intercollegiate athletics. He noted an intention to continue competing and leading nationally with a strategic focus.
Commissioner Tom Wistrcill said the timing was right to bring in Utah Tech and return Southern Utah to the league. He noted that adding these athletic departments, which are located within the conference's western United States geographic footprint, reinforces long-term stability and success for the league.
Southern Utah University previously participated in the Big Sky from 2012 to 2022, winning nine conference championships during that decade. President Mindy Benson expressed excitement about rejoining the conference, noting it provides a foundation for growth and the opportunity to renew in-state rivalries with Weber State and Utah Tech.
Utah Tech University, which completed its transition to Division I last summer, will also begin competing in the Big Sky for the 2026-27 season. President Shane B. Smeed said the invitation reflects the achievements of student-athletes and provides an opportunity to build meaningful regional rivalries.
Until their move is finalized, both Southern Utah and Utah Tech will remain members of the Western Athletic Conference. The two schools are located approximately 52 miles apart.
The expansion will see various sports programs joining the conference ranks. For Southern Utah, 14 teams will compete for championships in sports including football, basketball, cross country, golf, track and field, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Utah Tech will enter with at least 13 teams competing in sports such as football, basketball, cross country, golf, track and field, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball.
