Kansas State athletic director John Currie remained supportive of the Big 12 Conference while speaking with media members at halftime of the Wildcats’ first football game of the season against Eastern Kentucky tonight.
“Our number one goal has always been and will continue to be, as long as it’s feasible, to strengthen and enhance the Big 12,” Currie said.
Currie’s comments come at a time when other Big 12 members appear to be losing confidence in their conference. Reports indicate that Oklahoma and Texas are strongly considering a jump to the Pac-12.
With Texas A&M already expressing its interests to leave for the SEC, such a move would seemingly cripple the Big 12. But Currie said he is hopeful the league can stay together.
When asked if he or K-State president Kirk Schulz have been in contact with other conferences across the country to make contingency plans in case the Big 12 crumbles, he said that wasn’t the case.
“We’re not having any specific discussions with anybody about anything specific other than our continued commitment along with the rest of the Big 12 presidents and (athletic directors) to try and make this thing work,” Currie said.
Unless Oklahoma or Texas announce their intentions to seek membership in another conference, Currie said that was unlikely to change.
“Until somebody says the Big 12 is dead we’re going to be continuing to work with our partners in the Big 12 to strengthen the league and sustain and perpetuate the league, Currie said.”