Its official?

[GoRedGoBlue]

Saw on CH8, Dale Hansen said something like "Wow, this actually makes sense. Less expenses and teams we all know about."

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/2003-10-17-cusa-three_x.htm

[KnuckleStang]

The "ticker" on the bottom of Sportscenter just read, "SMU, Rice and Tulsa to leave WAC and join Conference USA." That's great, but it seems like much is being assumed here. How can they report that, when the BE hasn't extended anything formally to Cincy, UL, etc? I'll believe it when I see it, but it's looking good.

[Hilltopper]

I saw the ESPN ticker, too.
I'm like you - I'll believe it when I see it. But it sure is encouraging!

[Hilltopper]

And now there's a story on the home page from ESPN.com reporting it's a done deal!

[FloridaMustang]

Obviously the folks at CUSA know a bit more about the situation than you all. Ahem. That is all. For god's sake, yes we're leaving the WAC.

[The PonyGrad]

It's the dance that must be done. The BE is setting the pace. C-USA can not make any official announcement until the BE does because their members have not officially left yet. :thumbupcool:

[Mustangs35SMU]

We'll find out at the game I guess lol

[EastStang]

I heard the announcement on DC station WTEM Saturday morning. I guess it went out on the wires.

[SMUFan]

If this C-USA things comes down as we all cautiously think it will, this is the best thing to happen to SMU sports in eons. Despite our record, Coach Bennett and his staff actually will be able to improve their recruiting efforts, particularly in the Houston area. ("Sign with SMU, son, and we'll get you two games a year against Houston-area schools: Rice and UH. And we promise - no more trips to San Jose.")

The basketball coaches also should be able to recruit better. C-USA is a much better basketball conference in men's hoops -- even after Louisville, Marquette, etc. jump ship -- and the women will have a better shot at winning the whole thing in C-USA. With all due respect to Coach Rompola and her team, SMU is basically playing for second place, because LaTech is just too good.

I always thought the name of Conference USA was a little silly and self-promotional, but now I can't wait for the Ponies to benefit from the arrangement.