THE SIDELINES : Reno May Switch Conferences

The University of Nevada-Reno has launched a study into the feasibility of dropping the school’s affiliation with the Big Sky Conference, UNR Athletic Director Chris Ault said.

At the same time, he said the study is looking into the advantages of joining the Big West Conference, which features intrastate rival Nevada-Las Vegas, Utah State, New Mexico State and seven California schools.

Ault said he will report the findings of the athletic department study to UNR President Joe Crowley and the Board of Regents upon its completion in August.

Ault said he believes UNR is better suited geographically for alliance with the Big West. UNR could gain West Coast visibility, because the Big West has a national television contract with ESPN and a regional package into Southern California, he added.