Big 12 executives decide on invitation to Arizona, per report

The ball is officially in Arizona’s court.

According to Ross Dellenger of Yahoo Sports, Big 12 executives met Thursday to approve the application of Arizona as the conference’s 14th member. It’s now up to Arizona’s Board of Regents whether the Wildcats remain in the Pac-12 or leave for the Big 12.

Big 12 executives met Thursday to approve the application of Arizona as a 14th member, sources tell @YahooSports, paving the way for the Wildcats to enter the conference. It is another step in UA’s path to join. The final step would be approval from its Board of Regents.

— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) August 4, 2023

Arizona has been considered the Big 12’s top target since Colorado joined the conference after leaving the Pac-12. As of Friday morning, Arizona could go either way, according to ESPN’s Heather Dinich.

I said this morning on @SportsCenter that the Big 12 is ready to accept Arizona, but it’s not official until Arizona says it is. This could still go either way. Lots weighing on Oregon and Big Ten possibility. Somebody has to make the first move – or maybe nobody moves. https://t.co/SjGMjgcOim

— Heather Dinich (@CFBHeather) August 4, 2023

Arizona regents met Thursday evening but quickly went into executive session, which was not open to the public.