Missouri to explore moving from Big 12

The University of Missouri board of curators voted unanimously Tuesday night to consider leaving the Big 12.

The curators empowered school chancellor Brady Deaton to explore moving the athletics program.

"Missouri is considered a desirable member for many conferences," UM system president Steve Owens said after Tuesday's meeting.

Owens added that since the Big 12 is requesting its school members to make "binding, long-term, irrevocable commitments to the conference" now was the time for Missouri to explore its options.

Because of Deaton's role, he said he was resigning as chairman of the Big 12's board of directors.

"To avoid any perceived or actual conflict of interest, I've relinquished my role as chair of the Big 12 Board of Directors in order to focus more fully on MU's best interests," Deaton said. "I continue to be grateful for the support of the Mizzou family throughout the nation and across this state. We are dedicated to the best outcomes for our student-athletes."

The Big 12 has witnessed its share of changes in the last year. Nebraska left for the Big Ten, while Colorado departed for the now Pac-12. Texas A&M is leaving and will move to the SEC starting next year.

There has been speculation that Missouri would also go to the Southeastern Conference. Should Missouri move from the Big 12, it would leave the conference with eight schools.