In a surprising twist to conference realignment, Oregon State and Washington State have decided to become affiliate members of the West Coast Conference (WCC) for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons, according to sources. The WCC's presidents and athletic directors unanimously approved the measure, expanding the conference to 11 teams for men's and women's basketball. While the two schools have a separate agreement with the Mountain West for football, they will compete against WCC schools in other sports such as softball, volleyball, cross country, golf, soccer, and tennis.

This move comes as a surprise amidst industry speculation that Oregon State and Washington State would eventually join the Mountain West in all sports. However, logistical and legal complications have made it difficult for the schools to make a move in basketball and non-revenue sports at this time.

By becoming de facto WCC members, Oregon State and Washington State will have the opportunity to compete for regular-season and postseason titles in the conference. This includes eligibility for automatic-qualifier status for NCAA championship events, particularly the NCAA Tournament in basketball.

The addition of Oregon State and Washington State will also lead to changes in the WCC schedule. The conference schedule for basketball will expand from 16 games to either 18 or 20, ensuring increased competition and scheduling power for the conference. Adjustments to the WCC Tournament format are also expected.

Financial details regarding NCAA Tournament payouts have not been disclosed. The WCC's arrangement for distributing units earned from tournament victories differs from most conferences, largely due to the influence of powerhouse program Gonzaga.

The decision by Oregon State and Washington State to join the WCC for basketball and non-revenue sports is believed to be unprecedented in college sports history. However, it reflects the ever-changing landscape of collegiate athletics, with the potential collapse of the Pac-12 looming. The two schools are currently engaged in a legal battle with the 10 departing Pac-12 members over revenue following the expiration of the current TV deal on July 1, 2024.

While uncertainties remain about the future beyond the spring of 2026, sources indicate that the Mountain West is interested in a long-term partnership with Oregon State and Washington State as full members. However, the schools will compete as independents in the College Football Playoff in 2024 and will not be eligible for the Mountain West championship game in football.

In the realm of baseball, Oregon State intends to play as an independent in the near-term, along with Washington State, given the strength of their respective programs.

For the WCC, this agreement is a make-good after losing Brigham Young University (BYU) to the Big 12 conference. The WCC, which has a storied history with five Final Fours and two national championships by San Francisco, as well as recent success with Gonzaga's two title-game appearances, is determined to upgrade and strengthen its position in college basketball. Reports suggest that the conference is actively pursuing further expansion in the coming years, with or without the presence of Oregon State, Washington State, and Gonzaga.

As the college basketball landscape continues to evolve, the question remains whether the WCC can sustain its growth and emerge stronger in the coming years or if this move will only be a temporary boost. The pursuit of expansion and the potential threat of losing Gonzaga to the Big 12 loom large over the conference's future.