MWC board does not extend Boise State invite

Mountain West Conference expansion is on hold, for now.

The league's board of directors concluded two days of meetings at the Wort Hotel in Jackson, Wyo., by opting not to extend an invitation to Boise State University at this time. Monday's decision will keep MWC membership at nine (Air Force, BYU, Colorado State, New Mexico, San Diego State, TCU, UNLV, Utah and Wyoming).

However, the door is still open.

"Given the uncertainty in the intercollegiate landscape and the potential for significant shifts in the immediate future, the board did not make a decision to expand at the present time," conference commissioner Craig Thompson said in a released statement. "The MWC will continue to monitor developments and conduct its due diligence to prepare for potential scenarios. Our membership is pleased with the strength of the Mountain West and looks forward to continued growth and development."

Mounting speculation had Boise State receiving and accepting an invitation to join the MWC. The Broncos, reportedly, were slated to switch from the Western Athletic Conference in 2011.

Contacted Monday evening in Jackson, University of Utah president Michael Young said he agreed with the comments made by Thompson and said he couldn't add many details of what was discussed.

"There's a lot of uncertainty right now," he said, "and our view is not to change the membership at this time."

Young acknowledged that the recent developments with the Pac-10 reportedly pursuing Texas and other Big 12 schools, was a factor in the decision not to expand the conference.

"I won't go beyond saying that everything's in flux," he said. "There are a lot of balls up in the air and our view right now is don't open or shut the door on anything."

Recent reports involving potential expansion in several other conferences has produced more questions than answers.