Official announcements from NIU or the Mountain West Conference

Northern Illinois Joins Mountain West as Football-Only Member Starting July 2026, Paying $2 Million Fee, Expanding to Nine Members

Jan 7, 2025, 08:33 PM

Northern Illinois University (NIU) has officially accepted an invitation to join the Mountain West Conference (MWC) as a football-only member, starting July 1, 2026. The decision follows the unanimous approval by NIU's Board of Trustees and includes a $2 million membership fee. The Mountain West will have nine football members upon NIU's entry, which will enhance the conference's competitive landscape. NIU President Lisa C. Freeman expressed enthusiasm about the move, highlighting its significance for the university and its football program. The MWC is currently taking a pause on adding new football members to maintain a balanced schedule among teams. NIU's preference is to remain in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) for all other sports, pending approval.