IRVINE, Calif. – The Big West proudly announces that California Baptist University (CBU) will join the conference as a full member beginning in the 2026-27 academic year. This move enhances The Big West’s competitive landscape and reinforces its commitment to academic and athletic excellence.

"The addition of California Baptist University marks a significant step forward for The Big West," Commissioner Dan Butterly said. "CBU aligns with our mission of fostering competitive excellence, academic achievement and service within our communities. We are excited to welcome them and look forward to the talent, excitement and rivalries they will bring beginning July 1, 2026.”

Located in Riverside, California, CBU sponsors 19 NCAA Division I sports. Transitioning from the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), the Lancers will compete in The Big West in baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s soccer, softball, men’s and women’s swimming & diving, men’s and women’s track & field, men’s and women’s water polo, and women’s volleyball.

"Joining The Big West represents a pivotal moment for California Baptist University,” CBU President Ronald L. Ellis, Ph.D. said. “This opportunity reflects our continued growth as an institution and our commitment to excellence in athletics, academics, and service. We look forward to making an impact in The Big West."

CBU Athletic Director Micah Parker, Ph.D. added: "This move provides an outstanding opportunity for our student-athletes to compete at the highest level while strengthening our regional presence. We appreciate The Big West’s leadership for recognizing the value CBU brings to the conference."

While the potential for adding more full members exists, the addition of California Baptist University brings the total number of Big West schools to ten beginning in the 2026-27 season. Upon arrival CBU will have The Big West’s second smallest enrollment and will give Riverside the distinction of being the third US city with two NCAA Division I programs competing in the same conference along with USC and UCLA (Big Ten) and LaSalle and Temple (Atlantic 10). The Lancers will officially begin Big West competition on July 1, 2026.