Oklahoma and Texas are reportedly planning to sue the Big 12 conference over allegations of breach of contract regarding the conference’s handling of settlements. This legal action stems from the fallout of their decision to leave the Big 12 and join the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
The dispute centers around the terms of departure outlined in the conference bylaws and the alleged mishandling of exit settlements. Both universities announced their intentions to leave the Big 12 in 2021, which sparked negotiations over financial arrangements related to their exit.
The Big 12 Conference, headquartered in Irving, Texas, serves as the governing body for ten member universities, including Oklahoma and Texas. The conference’s bylaws outline specific procedures and financial obligations for member institutions wishing to leave.
Oklahoma and Texas claim that the Big 12 failed to adhere to these contractual obligations, thereby necessitating legal action to resolve the matter. The universities’ decision to join the SEC, effective July 1, 2025, was met with both excitement and controversy within the college sports community. The move is expected to significantly impact the landscape of collegiate athletics, particularly in football and basketball, where both schools have a storied history and strong fan bases.
The lawsuit underscores the complexities and financial stakes involved in collegiate conference realignment. It also highlights the legal and financial challenges faced by universities and conferences navigating such transitions. As legal proceedings unfold, stakeholders in college sports will closely monitor the outcomes, as they could set precedents for future conference realignment negotiations.