First on the list is Cincinnati, which has done nothing to hide its courtship. The
Bearcats have strong revenue programs and would make a logical geographic partner to current outlier West Virginia.
Connecticut will get more serious consideration than some imagine both because of its proximity to the New York media market and the presence of its powerhouse men’s and women’s basketball program.
Houston may seem obvious to some, given its Southwest Conference roots and current football renaissance under coach Tom Herman, but
Texas and likely TCU are believed to strongly object. As we’ve seen, though, things change.
UCF is a potential wild card. Tapping into
Florida recruiting footholds and TV sets is tempting, but to this point there hasn’t been much buzz about the Knights.
And then there’s BYU, with its massive fan base, proud history and Power 5-caliber facilities. Many Cougars fans believe they should have been invited five years ago. But BYU, with its religious mission, is a much different institution than the others, one that brings with it scheduling difficulties (no games on Sunday).
Bowlsby indicated a potential vote could come sometime this fall, which means we can look forward to several months of wild speculation. It also gives Big 12 leaders plenty of time to change their minds again. And again.
Brian A @BriUConn 
