Memphis AD Ed Scott acknowledges Big 12 rejection 'hurt,' says Tigers sent 'shockwave' in college athletics

The University of Memphis' bid to join the Big 12 Conference was rejected, according to the university's athletic director Ed Scott. Scott acknowledged that the rejection "hurt" the institution, but stated that the Tigers' pursuit of the move sent a "shockwave" through the world of college athletics. The Big 12 board ultimately decided not to expand the conference, despite Memphis' efforts to secure a spot. Scott expressed disappointment with the decision, but emphasized that the university remains committed to its athletic program and its goal of elevating its status in the national landscape. The article suggests that the Memphis Tigers' pursuit of the Big 12 bid had a significant impact on the broader landscape of college sports, even though the bid was ultimately unsuccessful. The university's determination to seek a move to a more prominent conference underscores its ambition to enhance its athletic profile and competitiveness at the highest levels of collegiate competition.