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Grand Canyon University Joins Mountain West Conference Effective Immediately

The Phoenix-based school gains eligibility for conference championships this fall after the MWC board approved its early integration following member departures to the Pac-12.

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Overview

  • The Mountain West board granted GCU immediate entry on July 8, 2025 through collaboration between Athletics VP Jamie Boggs and Commissioner Gloria Nevarez.
  • All 17 of Grand Canyon’s varsity teams will compete for regular-season titles, conference tournaments and NCAA postseason berths in the 2025-26 season.
  • GCU becomes the league’s 12th member as Hawaii, UC Davis, UTEP and Northern Illinois prepare to join in July 2026 following the announced departure of five schools to the Pac-12.
  • The university reversed its summer 2025 plan to join the West Coast Conference and the original 2026 MWC entry date to expedite the transition.
  • Bolstered by rapid enrollment growth and recent basketball success under coach Bryce Drew, GCU’s addition is expected to elevate the Mountain West’s competitiveness.