The Big 12 Conference and UConn have decided to pause their discussions about UConn joining the league. Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark announced the decision, citing a need to focus resources on ushering in a new era of college athletics. Despite UConn's strong basketball programs and a detailed pitch to Big 12 officials, the proposal did not gain sufficient support among Big 12 members, partly due to concerns about UConn's struggling football program. UConn Athletic Director David Benedict expressed that while it was flattering to be considered, the university will continue to focus on providing exceptional academic and athletic experiences for its students. The decision leaves UConn in the Big East for the foreseeable future, though future talks are not entirely ruled out.