$150 Million Fight Between College Conferences Now Set for Courtroom

The Pac‑12 and Mountain West conferences have failed to resolve a bitter legal dispute over more than $150 million in exit fees and so‑called “poaching penalties,” making a joint court filing Tuesday that signals a looming courtroom showdown.

The mediation that began in May fell apart as both sides remained entrenched in their positions, and a motion to dismiss hearing is scheduled for September 9 in federal court.

The dispute centers on the Pac-12’s decision to add five Mountain West teams —Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, and Utah State —beginning in 2026. Under the terms of a previous scheduling agreement, the Mountain West claims it is owed roughly $55 million in poaching fees, with additional exit penalties of around $19 million per school.

The Pac‑12 has responded with a federal lawsuit, arguing the penalties are unlawful and designed to limit its freedom to act in the best interests of student-athletes and member institutions. The Mountain West counters that the Pac‑12 knowingly agreed to the terms and must now honor its obligations.

With mediation concluded, both parties have jointly requested that the court address the motion to dismiss in September. If dismissed, the case would be deadlocked; however, if it moves forward, a full trial could be looming by October.

This legal standoff reflects how ugly conference realignment can become once schools leave. The result could set a precedent influencing how future realignments are negotiated and enforced. For both leagues, the outcome matters well beyond the courtroom as it could shape the foundation of college football conference structure.