OU to Submit Application to Remain in the Big 12 as a Wrestling Affiliate.

Last week we ran a story on OU and the Big 12. We spoke with the Big 12 offices and were informed that “Once the University of Oklahoma departs the Big 12 and officially joins the SEC, their sports will no longer be a part of the Big 12 portfolio”

We were also informed that they could submit a request for affiliate membership in the conference as a wrestling program. You can read the full story here.

The Big 12 Provides an Update on OU Wrestling’s Status with the Conference – Owrestle

Today we received a response from OU on the situation and were informed that they do intend to submit an application to stay in the Big 12 as a wrestling affiliate.

From OU

“Oklahoma has been one of the preeminent college wrestling programs over 90 years, winning seven national championships, earning 277 All-American honors and producing some of the best wrestlers to ever step on the mat. Oklahoma Wrestling is a proud member of the Big 12 Conference and we look forward to continuing our partnership by applying for affiliate membership in wrestling upon the university’s move to the Southeastern Conference in 2025. Oklahoma Wrestling will continue to enjoy a prominent presence in collegiate athletics and we look forward to that exciting future.”

It will ultimately still be up to the Big 12 Universities and their Presidents to accept and approve that application.

But it’s certainly a positive step and sign to see that they do intend to maintain that relationship moving forward.