MO HR4042

Missouri House of Representatives expresses support for Saint Louis University (SLU) joining the Big East Conference as a member institution

SLU is characterized as a basketball-first private research university in a major metropolitan market that aligns with Big East's institutional profile of private, urban, mission-centered universities

Resolution cites economic benefits of conference membership, noting the SEC distributed $808.4 million to member universities in fiscal year 2023-24 as an example of the value of premier conference affiliation

Anticipated economic benefits for Missouri include increased visitor spending, higher-demand sporting events, expanded sponsorship opportunities, and national broadcast exposure

Resolution notes support from U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt and basketball coach Rick Pitino for SLU's potential Big East membership