Statements from Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little and Athletics Director Sheahon Zenger Regarding the Big 12 Conference

Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little:

"Today Texas A&M notified the Big 12 of its intention to leave the conference at the end of the 2011-12 season. The Big 12 had already started actively examining expansion opportunities and KU fully supports this effort.

"The high level of competition in the Big 12 provides tremendous value to its member schools and excitement for fans around the country. We'll aggressively pursue the best interests of the University of Kansas, our student-athletes and fans, and that continues to be for the Big 12 to remain strong and competitive."

Athletics Director Sheahon Zenger:

"We have known for some time that this was a possibility. We have nine institutions firmly committed to the Big 12 Conference. Chancellor Gray-Little and I will continue working together with Commissioner Beebe, the Big 12 Board of Directors and the other conference members as we take the necessary steps to ensure the continued strength of this conference."