It’s officially official for Missouri – the Tigers have announced that they will be leaving the Big 12 Conference and joining the SEC. The move comes after months of speculation and reports indicating the school would join Texas A&M in the move to give the SEC 14 teams.
Big 12 interim commissioner Chuck Neinas released the following statement following Missouri’s announcement.
"The decision by the University of Missouri to leave the Big 12 Conference is disappointing. Mizzou has been a valuable member, with a Conference connection to schools in the Big 12 that dates back to 1907,” Neinas said in the statement. “I personally believe this decision is a mistake and that Missouri is a better fit in the Big 12. Once we have received a formal notice of withdrawal from Missouri, we will furnish it to our Board of Directors. The Board will review the situation and take appropriate action."
Missouri’s move for the SEC will take effect July 1, 2012. The Tigers will compete in the East division, along with Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee and Vanderbilt.