University of Arizona's Athletic Department Faces Financial Crisis Ahead of Big 12 Move

President Robert C. Robbins considers cutting sports as an option amidst wider university budget shortfall; plans to reduce expenses and find additional revenue streams underway.

The University of Arizona's athletic department is facing financial difficulties ahead of its move from the Pac-12 to the Big 12, with President Robert C. Robbins acknowledging that the department is not generating the expected revenue post-COVID-19 pandemic.
The athletic department's financial struggles are part of a larger budget shortfall at the university, which is considering cutting sports as a potential solution.
The department was given a $55 million loan during the height of the pandemic, which has not been repaid quickly enough, contributing to the financial issues.
Arizona is one of four schools, along with Arizona State, Utah, and Colorado, leaving the Pac-12 for the Big 12 next year, as part of a larger disintegration of the Pac-12.
The university plans to address its current budget challenges by reducing expenses and finding additional revenue streams, with a plan expected to be released by mid-December.