Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark to Depart in January

A $2.28 billion television contract defines the final year of Brett Yormark’s tenure as Big 12 commissioner. The league announced on Friday that Yormark will step down from his position on January 31, 2027.

This decision comes 18 months after Yormark signed a contract extension through 2030. He has served as the fifth commissioner in the conference’s 32-year history. His departure concludes a four-year period of structural changes within the league.

Yormark stated that his objective was to place the conference on an upward trajectory. He expressed confidence that the future of the Big 12 is in strong shape. He noted that the next commissioner will inherit a stable organization known as 16 Strong.

Before joining the Big 12 in 2022, Yormark served as CEO of Jay-Z’s Roc Nation entertainment company. He previously held the CEO position at the Brooklyn Nets. He replaced Bob Bowlsby when he took over the league.

During his time in office, Yormark secured a six-year media deal extension with ESPN and Fox. He also managed the integration of new members following the collapse of the Pac-12. Colorado, Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah joined the Big 12 under his leadership.

He also oversaw the arrival of BYU, Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF. These schools were part of a move negotiated by his predecessor. Yormark used his business background to implement new sponsorship and marketing strategies for the league.

Douglas A. Girod, the University of Kansas Chancellor and Big 12 board chairman, thanked Yormark for guiding the conference through a difficult period. Girod said Yormark’s vision and business skills placed the league on its current path. He described the time since Yormark’s arrival as an extraordinary era for the group.