04/17/24
October 27, 2011
What Happened to West Virginia's Big 12 Invite?: On Tuesday, sources said that West Virginia had accepted an invitation to join the Big 12 conference. On Wednesday, the deal was undone and the Big 12 was reportedly considering the University of Louisville. Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.V.), who attended West Virginia on a football scholarship, has called for a Congressional investigation to see if Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), a former Louisville student body president, messed with the Mountaineers. "If someone as U.S. Senator interfered after the process took place, then that's wrong and unacceptable," Manchin said.
I think McConnell's action sound about normal. Senators and representatives exercise their influence to benefit their home states. If he didn't have any conflict of interest, I'm unclear why this could or would be an ethics violation.
posted by bperk at 02:06 PM on October 27, 2011
While it does not necessarily fit the timeline, maybe the Big 12 saw WVU's performance last Friday against Syracuse and changed its mind.
posted by holden at 05:39 PM on October 27, 2011
The Senator from Kentucky is only one element. Missouri's move to the SEC isn't locked yet, so there is always the possibility that they might stay in the Big XII. They have a history of fickle moves. Just look at the naming fiasco of their new arena. Originally named after a Wal Mart heiress that admitted cheating while she was at MU. Paige arena became Mizzou Arena. I digress.
Also, OU and Texas are quietly trying to assert their opinions as to which team to invite. I don't need any heavy counseling to figure out why they want Louisville - no football competition.
All of which culminates in congressional inquiry as to why the Big XII can't manage its own house.
I for one would welcome West Virginia and just assume send MU packing. I have loved the border rivalry with Kansas all my life, but this whole situation is childish and embarrassing.