Unveiling the Conference Houston Competed In Before Joining the Big 12- A Journey Back in Time
What conference was Houston in before the Big 12? This question often arises among sports enthusiasts and fans of the University of Houston. The answer to this query lies in the rich history of college sports and the evolution of conferences over the years.
The University of Houston, a prominent institution in Texas, was a member of the Southwest Conference (SWC) before joining the Big 12 Conference. The SWC was a collegiate athletic conference that was active from 1921 to 1995, primarily consisting of universities from Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana. The conference was known for its competitive nature and the success of its member schools in various sports, including football and basketball.
Houston’s tenure in the SWC began in 1948, and the university quickly became a powerhouse in the conference. The Cougars, as the university’s athletic teams are known, achieved significant success in football, basketball, and other sports during their time in the SWC. Notable achievements included multiple conference championships and national rankings.
The decision to leave the SWC and join the Big 12 Conference was a significant one for the University of Houston. The Big 12 Conference, formed in 1995, was created by merging the SWC with the Big Eight Conference. The Big 12 was initially composed of 12 member institutions, with the University of Houston joining as one of the founding members.
Joining the Big 12 provided the University of Houston with additional opportunities for competition and exposure on a national level. The conference has been home to some of the most competitive teams in college sports, and the Cougars have continued to excel in various sports, including football, basketball, and baseball.
In conclusion, the University of Houston was a member of the Southwest Conference before joining the Big 12 Conference. The transition from the SWC to the Big 12 marked a new era of success and growth for the Cougars, as they continued to compete at the highest level in college sports.
