I heard a rumor. RUMOR. I'm talking non-sourced, total rumor that I had at first dismissed (because I didn't want to believe it), and I've been mulling on it and I guess I'll share it. In terms of credibility, I rate it as felt-tip writing on the bathroom stall wall of a Morgantown diner the Dude is known to frequent.
The rumor is an effort to bring OK, UK, UT, and UConn to the B1G. The effort has a high probability of failure due the complex nature of the negotiations, which involves shaking state school partners, ESPN picking up equity in the Big Ten Network, and about a gazillion other things.
The idea is that the deal--which is of course tied to and the direct result of B1G tv negotiations--would strengthen the B1G West and hopefully lead to primo matchups for the B1G CCG. Also, it would slant the NCG in favor of a B1G/SEC matchup and weight the matchup away from the PAC and ACC.
UConn comes in to add balance in the East for all the reasons that have been covered. OK/UConn non-AAU not an issue.
As much as I want to see UConn in the B1G, I must say this: I don't like Texas. I think the B1G would be nuts to get involved with them. And I don't think this rumor comes to fruition.
But...there it is. Take it for what its worth. Essentially amusement and something to think about.