The Pac-12 conference has always been known for its strong athletic programs, particularly in football and basketball. However, in recent years, the conference has faced criticism for its lack of competitiveness in both sports. But with a renewed focus on rebuilding and strengthening its basketball programs, the Pac-12 is poised to make a comeback and reclaim its place in the college basketball hierarchy.
The Pac-12 has a storied history in college basketball, producing some of the greatest players and teams in the sport. From the UCLA dynasty of the 1960s and 70s to the Arizona Wildcats’ consistent success in the 90s and early 2000s, the conference has always been a force to be reckoned with on the court. However, in recent years, the Pac-12 has fallen behind other conferences such as the ACC, Big Ten, and Big 12 in terms of overall competitiveness.
One of the main reasons for this decline is the lack of investment and resources dedicated to basketball programs within the conference. While football has always been the main focus, many Pac-12 schools have neglected their basketball programs, leading to a decline in recruiting and overall performance. But this is all about to change.
Under the leadership of new commissioner George Kliavkoff, the Pac-12 has made a commitment to prioritize basketball and invest in its programs. This was evident in the recent hiring of longtime NBA executive, Larry Scott, as the conference’s new head of men’s basketball. Scott brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role and is determined to elevate the Pac-12’s status in college basketball.
One of the first steps towards rebuilding the Pac-12’s basketball reputation was the creation of the Pac-12 Network. This network not only provides increased exposure for the conference’s teams but also generates additional revenue that can be invested in the basketball programs. This increased visibility will also help in recruiting top talent to the Pac-12 schools, as players will have more opportunities to showcase their skills on a national platform.
Another key factor in the Pac-12’s rebuilding process is the hiring of top-notch coaches. In recent years, the conference has seen a decline in the quality of coaching, with many programs struggling to find success under their current leadership. However, with the increased investment in basketball, schools are now able to attract top-tier coaches who can develop and lead their teams to success. The hiring of coaches such as Mick Cronin at UCLA and Tommy Lloyd at Arizona is a clear indication of the Pac-12’s commitment to building strong basketball programs.
But the rebuilding of the Pac-12 goes beyond just investing in resources and hiring top coaches. The conference is also focused on developing its players and providing them with the best opportunities to succeed. This includes investing in state-of-the-art facilities, improving training programs, and providing academic support for student-athletes. These efforts will not only benefit the players but also help attract top recruits who are looking for a well-rounded college experience.
With all these changes and investments, it’s clear that the Pac-12 is serious about reclaiming its place in the college basketball hierarchy. And the results are already starting to show. In the 2021 NCAA tournament, four Pac-12 teams (UCLA, Oregon State, USC, and Oregon) made it to the Sweet 16, with UCLA advancing to the Final Four. This success is a clear indication that the conference’s efforts are paying off, and the Pac-12 is on its way back to the top.
But it’s not just about on-court success. The Pac-12 is also committed to creating a more competitive and exciting conference for fans. With the addition of new teams such as the University of Arizona and the University of Utah, the conference now has a total of 12 teams, making it one of the largest in the country. This means more rivalries, more intense matchups, and a more competitive conference overall.
In conclusion, the Pac-12 is on a mission to rebuild and reclaim its place in the college basketball hierarchy. With a renewed focus on investing in resources, hiring top coaches, and developing players, the conference is already seeing positive results. And as the Pac-12 continues to grow and improve, it will undoubtedly become one of the most competitive and exciting conferences in college basketball. So, basketball fans, get ready for an even stronger and more competitive Pac-12 on the court.
