Big 12 interim commissioner Chuck Neinas commented following the announcement that the Southeastern Conference accepted Missouri as its 14th member. In a statement posted on Big12Sports.com, Neinas said:
“The decision by the University of Missouri to leave the Big 12 Conference is disappointing. Mizzou has been a valuable member, with a Conference connection to schools in the Big 12 that dates back to 1907. I personally believe this decision is a mistake and that Missouri is a better fit in the Big 12. Once we have received a formal notice of withdrawal from Missouri, we will furnish it to our Board of Directors. The Board will review the situation and take appropriate action.”
Missouri Chancellor Brady Deaton was confident that there would be no hang ups in Missouri joining the SEC by the announced date of July 1, 2012. Deaton also provided further details on why a move to the SEC made sense for Missouri.
Deaton on the Big 12 exit and moving forward with the SEC (1:22)