Colorado leaves Big 12 to join Pac-10

NEW YORK -- The University of Colorado has accepted an invitation to join the Pac-10. The conference announced the addition of its 11th member on Thursday.

"This is an historic moment for the Conference, as the Pac-10 is poised for tremendous growth," Pac-10 commissioner Larry Scott said. "The University of Colorado is a great fit for the conference both academically and athletically and we are incredibly excited to welcome Colorado to the Pac-10."

Colorado becomes the first school to officially leave the Big 12. Numerous news outlets reported late Wednesday evening that Nebraska would leave the Big 12 to join the Big Ten, but neither party has officially confirmed the decision. An announcement is expected on Friday.

The Pac-10 concluded its meetings on June 5 by giving Scott the green light to pursue expansion. Other rumored Pac-10 targets include Texas, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. Texas and Texas A&M are reportedly meeting today to discuss their options.

Scott and Colorado officials will hold an official press conference on Friday, June 11 at 1 p.m. ET.