University of Denver Joins West Coast Conference in 2026 Transition
The University of Denver (DU) will transition to the West Coast Conference (WCC) in 2026, marking a significant shift in its athletics program. This decision, announced on a recent Friday, sees the Pioneers competing in nine sports within their new conference.
University of Denver Joins West Coast Conference in 2026 Transition
The Pioneers will participate in various sports, including:
- Men’s Basketball
- Women’s Basketball
- Men’s Golf
- Women’s Golf
- Men’s Soccer
- Women’s Soccer
- Men’s Tennis
- Women’s Tennis
- Volleyball
However, not all programs are affected by this change. Key athletic teams remain in their current conferences:
- Hockey will compete in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference.
- Gymnastics will continue in the Big 12 Conference.
- Men’s and women’s lacrosse will stay in the Big East.
- Triathlon remains independent.
The university plans to announce its conference transition strategy for men’s and women’s swimming and diving later. This move to the WCC aligns well with DU’s status as a private institution, as the WCC predominantly consists of private colleges located on the West Coast.
Impact on Athletics
Despite the departure of Gonzaga, a respected basketball program, to the Pac-12 in 2026, the WCC represents an advancement for DU in the college athletics hierarchy. The Pioneers have been in the Summit League since 2013, following a history that includes stints in the Western Athletic Conference and Sun Belt.
Historically, the Pioneers have faced challenges in men’s basketball, lacking an appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Under the leadership of first-year coach Tim Bergstraser, the men’s basketball team aims to improve as they commence the 2025-26 season. The Pioneers have not experienced a winning season since 2016-17, highlighting the challenges ahead as they enter the WCC.
This transition is expected to enhance the competitive landscape for the University of Denver while providing a fresh opportunity for growth in its athletic programs.
