Texas, OU Express Intent To Leave Big 12

AUSTIN — The bombshell that the University of Texas and University of Oklahoma were in serious discussions to become members of the Southeastern Conference got a little clearer Monday as they took the first step in leaving the Big 12.

The two schools released a joint statement Monday saying they notified the Big 12 of their intent to let their grant of media rights expire under the current contract, which ends in 2025. The statement says both schools intend to honor the current agreement, but it gives them some wiggle room, stating "both universities will continue to monitor the rapidly evolving collegiate athletics landscape as they consider how best to position their athletics programs for the future."

For the full statement, click here.

Houston Chronicle reporter Brent Zwerneman first reported Wednesday that Texas and OU had been in discussions with the SEC to join the conference.

On Friday, Austin American-Statesman reporter Kirk Bohls tweeted that the move was almost complete and "could become official in a week."