[ Post a Response | Long Beach State Sports ]
And I always thought the Jesuit run institutions of the WCC wanted no part of the California public schools. 
Previous Message
I though Big West Schools frowned upon joining a private School conference as they may have bigger donors to support this new era of play for pay. Previous Message
The WCC without Gonzaga falls off significantly. Bennett leaving St. Mary's will do nothing but hurt their MBB program. Those two schools helped lift the tide for USF and Santa Clara. Previous Message
From an AI search. Is the WCC really that good?
Potential Move of UC Santa Barbara to the WCC
Current Situation
UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) is contemplating a transition from the Big West Conference to the West Coast Conference (WCC). This consideration follows UC San Diego's recent decision to join the WCC, which will take effect in 2027. The WCC is looking to expand its membership, and UCSB is among the schools being considered.
Factors Influencing the Move Departures from the BigWest : The Big West Conference has seen the exit of several key members, which has raised concerns about its competitiveness and stability.
WCC's Appeal: The WCC is known for its strong athletic programs and has a history of success in various sports, making it an attractive option for UCSB.
Implications of the Move
Aspect Current (Big West) Potential (WCC)
Conference Stability Decreasing Increasing
Athletic Competitiveness Moderate High
Membership Size Smaller Larger
Sports Sponsorship Limited Broader
Conclusion
UCSB's athletic director is weighing the pros and cons of this potential move, considering both the current state of the Big West and the opportunities presented by joining the WCC. The decision will significantly impact the university's athletic future and its competitive landscape. Previous Message
on 4/10/2026, 3:09 pm, in reply to "