For example, conference realignment rumors have meant a pause on "high-level fundraising" at Mizzou, which is in the midst of a $160 million capital campaign. Several "eight-figure donors" were preparing a gift to the university, but that's now on hold until Missouri's conference affiliation is determined. Katz writes that if the Tigers somehow fell into the Mountain West, then the gift would be less.
Money isn't the only issue at Mizzou. Recruiting is also taking a hit, according to Katz's source, especially if the Tigers end up in a conference that won't be playing Texas-based schools.
At Kansas State, there are multiple capital projects that were started or planned for this fiscal year after the new Fox deal — estimated at $90 million over 13 years — was signed. You can see why K-State wants to retain its right to sue should Texas A&M's move to the SEC lead to the collapse of the Big 12.
Katz also covers the possible conference realignment scenarios for Missouri, Kansas State and Kansas. His source says Mizzou is "confident" that it could wind up in the SEC. Second choice is the ACC, followed by the Big East. However, the Big Ten is apparently not in the picture.
As for KU and K-State, they could end up in the Pac-12 if the conference expands to 16 teams. The ACC and Big East are also options.
I hope 610 Sports' Bob Fescoe is right and the Big 12 somehow survives. His sources are telling him that the conference "may be giving OU what they want to stay. Hearing UT like dollars to keep them." Really, this is the best option for all of the local schools and even Kansas City.
Fescoe also wrote on Twitter that if Oklahoma stays, "There will be a 'death clause' put in for all the members if they try to leave. up to 70 mil to leave."
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The problem is, if OU gets what Texas has, you seem to be decreasing the incentive for any other large school to join the conference. It needs to be equal revenue sharing, just like the other large conferences. OU and UT don't even need the additional funds, which is what makes it all so ridiculous.
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