Memphis Tigers Seek Power Conference Opportunity
The Memphis Tigers are eager for a chance to join a Power Conference. Recently, college sports have undergone significant changes with various conference realignments, and Memphis remains in the American Athletic Conference. The Tigers are determined to break free, and they’re ready to invest hundreds of millions to do so.
Memphis has submitted a proposal to the Big 12, offering $200 million from university partners. According to a report, the plan indicates that for the first five years, schools within the conference won’t receive any earnings from the league, and there’s also a provision allowing them to be removed after 2031 if it turns out to be unbeneficial for the Tigers.
While Memphis has put substantial funding on the table to gain entry into the Big 12, they remain in a precarious position. At least 12 of the 16 school presidents in the conference need to approve their addition, and right now, Memphis is not garnering any votes.
Despite a $250 million sponsorship to the school, the Big 12 isn’t keen on adding Memphis, sources suggest. Memphis seemed close to securing a pathway to the Big 12, according to initial reports.
– Brett McMurphy
Over the years, Memphis has engaged in discussions with Cincinnati, UCF, Houston, and BYU but has turned down invitations, and it appears they might do so again.
In recent years, the Big 12 has also declined to welcome UConn and Gonzaga. Although Memphis’s current offer presents a significant financial incentive for the Big 12, it may not be sufficient.
The proposal is framed by Memphis as “risk-free.” Prominent university sponsors like FedEx and Lowe’s are said to be covering much of the financial commitment.
The Memphis proposal is viewed as “risk-free.” The plan states that (1) the school will not receive any distribution for five years, (2) sponsorship will provide an additional $3 million annually for each Big 12 school, and if deemed lacking in benefit, the Tigers may part ways after 2030.
– Ross Dellenger
Over the years, Memphis has significantly boosted its investments, counting on financial backing from major sponsors such as FedEx and Lowe’s. With this support, the university anticipates achieving a remarkable $20 million in revenue-sharing with athletes by next year.
– Ross Dellenger
Despite Memphis’s desperate attempt with this proposal, it seems to fall short. The Tigers boast a commendable soccer program, having achieved a 10-win season in 2025. Their men’s basketball team, under Coach Penny Hardaway, has participated in NCAA tournaments for the past four years, though they haven’t progressed past the first weekend.
Memphis fans are passionate about their Tigers. The university aspires to secure a spot among the top-tier conferences, yet the Big 12 continues to keep them at bay.
