The Big West Conference announced in a March 19 press release that California Baptist University will become a full member in July 2026.
CBU offers 19 NCAA Division I sports, will transition from the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) to compete in the Big West in men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, baseball, softball, men’s and women’s swimming and diving, track and field, water polo, and women’s volleyball.
“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,” Commissioner Dan Butterly said in the release.
The Big West also welcomed CBU in a follow-up release on March 21 that included remarks from CBU President Dr. Ronald L. Ellis.
“This has been a culmination of quite a long period of time. When I arrived at CBU in 1994 as president, I understood that we could use athletics to enhance the campus culture,” Ellis said. “We think this is really going to enhance competition and rivalries… we’re very excited about being a part of the Big West.”
With CBU joining the Big West, many matchups will become more local and accessible. As Ellis noted in the release, “It’s a bus ride.”
CBU Vice President for Athletics, Micah Parker, highlighted the positive impact on the student-athlete experience.
“It also means our coaches and staff will be at home a lot more, and that’s something that’s overlooked a lot, but it’s something that’s really important to us and our student-athlete experience too,” Parker said.
CBU’s addition will bring the number of schools in the Big West to 10 for the 2026–27 season. The Big West noted in its release that “upon arrival, CBU will have the Big West’s second smallest enrollment and will give Riverside the distinction of being the third U.S. city with two NCAA Division I programs competing in the same conference.”
CBU’s move to the Big West opens new opportunities for both the local community and student-athletes. With its proximity to other Big West institutions, fans can enjoy more regional matchups and in-conference rivalries, which could drive increased attendance and promote a greater sense of school pride.
The enhanced competition will benefit not only athletes but also the university’s athletic development as a whole, as CBU prepares to face some of the top teams in the region.
As the university transitions into the Big West, its leadership remains committed to continuing CBU’s tradition of excellence in athletics and academics. With a strong focus on student-athlete development, CBU is poised to make a significant impact in the conference. The move is seen as a natural step forward in the university’s long-term vision—one that aligns with its mission to foster a well-rounded, competitive environment for students both on and off the field.
As 2026 approaches, CBU looks forward to making a lasting impact in the Big West Conference, enhancing its presence in NCAA Division I athletics and continuing its pursuit of growth and excellence.
