When does Washington join the Big Ten? Looking at former Pac-12 teams relocating after conference realignment

Washington is one of the four Pac-12 schools transitioning to the Big Ten ahead of the 2024 college football season. The Huskies, who won the Pac-12 championship in their last season in the conference, are joined by the trio of Oregon, USC and UCLA. With the 2024 season fast approaching, here’s a look at when Washington will officially transition to the Big Ten.

When does Washington join the Big Ten?

Washington will officially become a member of the Big Ten on Aug. 2, 2024, just a few weeks before the commencement of the college football season. The Huskies will compete in the conference in all sports like they did during their days in the Pac-12.

The university agreed to join the Big Ten last summer, alongside Oregon, after the Pac-12 couldn’t secure a lucrative media deal. Following the agreement, the president of the school, Ana Mari Cauce, released a statement, showcasing the Huskies' excitement at the move.

“The Big Ten is a thriving conference with strong athletic and academic traditions, and we are excited and confident about competing at the highest level on a national stage,” Cauce said. "My top priority must be to do what is best for our student-athletes and our University, and this move will help ensure a strong future for our athletics program.”

Washington worked toward ensuring Pac-12's survival

While the Huskies will be making a move to the Big Ten in August, the university tried to ensure the survival of the Pac-12. However, when a lucrative television deal became unattainable, it had to decide with consideration toward its stability in college sports.

“We are proud of our rich history with the Pac-12 and for more than a year have worked hard to find a viable path that would keep it together,” Cauce said. "I have tremendous admiration and respect for my Pac-12 colleagues."

"Ultimately, however, the opportunities and stability offered by the Big Ten are unmatched. Even with this move, we remain committed to the Apple Cup and to competing with WSU across all of our sports.”

It's worth noting that the eventual exit of the Huskies alongside Oregon finally led to the implosion of the Pac-12. The exit of the two universities led others to reconsider their position on the future of the conference.

Subsequently, the trio of Arizona, Arizona State and Utah transitioned to the Big 12 while Stanford and Cal moved to the Atlantic Coast Conference, leaving behind Oregon State and Washington State.