Summary:
- Pac-12 conference implosion raises concerns about University of Hawaii's position in conference realignment.
- Realignment driven by financial factors and television contracts.
- Strong athletic departments like Stanford and Cal impacted by realignment due to football focus.
- UH's current status in Mountain West conference remains stable, but potential departures still a concern.
The recent upheaval in college sports caused by the implosion of the Pac-12 conference is sending shockwaves across the nation, raising concerns about the University of Hawaii's future in the shifting landscape of conference realignment.
As the Pac-12 conference undergoes significant changes, with only four teams remaining, the University of Hawaii finds itself in a precarious position. The realignment, driven by financial considerations and television contracts, has left the future of UH athletics uncertain. While schools like Stanford and Cal boast strong athletic departments, they were not immune to the impact of realignment due to their focus on football. On the other hand, UH currently resides in the Mountain West conference, which faced its own potential shakeup earlier when San Diego State considered a move to the Pac-12. Despite the current stability, the threat of departures looms as schools vie for advantageous positions.
The fate of UH athletics rests on the attractiveness of its football program to television networks. The state's delayed efforts to address infrastructure issues, including the condemned Aloha Stadium and limited facilities, pose additional challenges. The future of various sports, including volleyball, basketball, baseball, and softball, also hangs in the balance due to the revenue generated by football. Supporters are urged to contribute through season ticket purchases and tuning in to broadcasts.