A Legal Battle for Control: Pac-12 Conference Faces Uncertain Future and Departing Schools File Lawsuit

An ongoing legal battle for control of the Pac-12 conference is currently under discussion. The main concern revolves around the 10 departing universities, who fear that if Oregon State and Washington State gain complete control of the conference board, they could potentially withhold revenue distribution for the 2023-24 school year. In response, WSU and OSU have filed a complaint for breach of bylaws and have obtained a temporary restraining order to safeguard the conference’s future. To show solidarity, Washington and the other departing schools have joined the lawsuit, voicing their apprehension regarding the detrimental impact this situation could have on their athletic programs. The initial lawsuit was initiated due to OSU and WSU’s fear that the departing schools might opt to shut down the conference and divide the remaining assets among themselves. However, the departing schools have refuted any such intentions. The court will soon reach a decision regarding the voting rights of OSU and WSU on the Pac-12 board. Additionally, the conference is currently dealing with financial liabilities and pending litigation. A hearing for a preliminary injunction has been scheduled for November 14.