ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) - A growing number of people, including Missouri lawmakers, are pushing for Saint Louis University to move to the Big East Conference to join schools like UConn, Georgetown and Villanova.
State Rep. Brad Christ from St. Louis County filed a resolution supporting the move, saying it would impact the entire state’s economy.
SLU men’s basketball has won 15 straight games in what could be a launching point to something bigger, like a new conference.
The basketball-focused Big East gets more national television coverage and, in 2024, generated $70 million more in revenue than the Atlantic 10, according to ProPublica.
Christ, whose wife attended SLU, said the resolution sends a clear signal about Missouri’s support.
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“The resolution is just a statement of support, it’s not a mandate it just sends a clear signal that Missouri leaders recognize the value SLU brings to the state and it’s about back an opportunity that benefits students, the city and really the whole state of Missouri economy,” Christ said.
Christ pointed to Mizzou’s 2012 move to the SEC as proof of economic benefits from conference changes.
“I think St. Louis is ready for it, you’re looking at hotel stays, restaurants traffic, local spending. I mean if you just saw Chaifetz arena this weekend, with Dayton in town, you can imagine what it would be with a Big East rival,” Christ said.
When asked about the realistic chances of a Big East move, Christ said he doesn’t know all the elements involved but wanted to show Missouri leaders’ support.
SLU Athletic Director Chris May sent First Alert 4 the following statement:
SLU is on a trajectory of competing at a high level, as shown by the men’s basketball season to date and the 2025 College Cup run by our men’s soccer program. While conference realignment is always on our radar, we are a proud member of the Atlantic 10 Conference and remain focused on winning A-10 championships and making runs in the postseason. We appreciate the support of the Saint Louis University community as we continue to build a nationally prominent program.
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