Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark is departing the conference to take a job outside college sports. He approached the Big 12 board nearly 10 days ago, and the board formalized his exit Friday. Yormark will stay through January to ensure a smooth transition.
The league will launch a national search for his successor. Yormark, the fifth commissioner in Big 12 history, stated the conference is '16 strong' and 'in better shape than ever.' Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod, chair of the board, praised Yormark's legacy, particularly his early renegotiation of the TV deal with ESPN and Fox, which outmaneuvered the Pac-12. Yormark also oversaw the integration of eight new schools, including Colorado, Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah.
His contract had been extended through 2030 in May 2025. Known for his fast-paced, business-driven approach from the NBA and NASCAR world, Yormark was credited with revitalizing the Big 12's brand and national footprint.
Source: ESPN General · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing