Opportunities Emerge for Mountain West and WCC with Pac-12’s Las Vegas Tournament Exit – Sky Bulletin
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The departure of the Pac-12 Conference from Las Vegas brings a significant chance for the Mountain West and West Coast Conference to gain the spotlight. Both conferences, along with the Big West and Western Athletic Conference, are set to become more visible in the bustling basketball scene of Las Vegas.
The Mountain West Conference is experiencing an exceptional season, with predictions of six teams entering the NCAA Tournament. This would surpass the conference’s previous high of five teams sent in 2013. Notably, the Mountain West has been a staple in Las Vegas since 2000, facing some challenges along the way.
Former senior associate commissioner for the Pac-12 Gloria Nevarez, now Mountain West Commissioner, acknowledges the loss of the Pac-12’s presence not only affects the recognition of other tournaments but also impacts the overall energy and business aspects associated with major college sports events. However, this change offers a way forward for conferences like the WCC, which relocated its tournament to Las Vegas in 2009 and sparked a trend among other leagues.
The WCC’s success in Las Vegas is well-known; with a strong following for Gonzaga and other high-performing teams, it’s created a tradition for some fans. It’s a noteworthy distinction that the Pac-12 was the sole Power Five conference holding events at prestigious venues like the T-Mobile Arena in the city.
With the Pac-12’s transformation, Oregon State and Washington State are now set to join the WCC as affiliate members for basketball. The Mountain West may eye opportunities to increase its presence in Las Vegas, perhaps moving into more neutral venues such as T-Mobile, while the WCC seems content at the Orleans Arena. Stu Jackson, the current WCC Commissioner, values the timing of the WCC tournament for the visibility and preparation it offers teams prior to the NCAA Tournament.
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FAQ Section:
- Why is the Pac-12 Conference leaving Las Vegas?
Specific details regarding the Pac-12’s decision were not disclosed in the original information. However, the reference to the conference playing its final tournaments “in their current state” suggests a significant change or realignment within the conference. - Which conferences are likely to gain more visibility with the Pac-12’s departure?
The Mountain West and West Coast Conference are touted as the primary beneficiaries in terms of recognition. The Big West and Western Athletic Conference could also see increased visibility. - How has the Mountain West performed this season?
The Mountain West has had one of its best seasons, with six teams projected to make the NCAA Tournament, surpassing its previous best of five teams in 2013. - What are the plans for the WCC and its tournament location?
The WCC intends to stay at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, with the timing of its tournament providing strategic advantages for national visibility and NCAA Tournament preparation.
Conclusion:
The landscape of college basketball tournaments in Las Vegas is undergoing significant changes with the Pac-12’s departure. This opens up avenues for the Mountain West and WCC to enhance their status and draw in fans for what is heralded as a week of exceptional basketball. Both conferences are adapting to the new reality, but they also recognize the hole left by a Power Five conference. As they move forward, the shifting dynamics of college basketball promise exciting possibilities for new traditions and rivalries to emerge in Las Vegas.
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