By MALCOLM BUTLER, Lincoln Parish Journal
RUSTON — After months of legal chess, the divorce between Louisiana Tech and Conference USA is finally over without ever colliding in court.
Conference USA sent out a statement late Monday afternoon stating that the two sides have come to a resolution, the first sign of the I’s dotted and T’s crossed since last summer when Tech’s bid for Sun Belt Conference membership was accepted.
“Conference USA is pleased to have reached a positive resolution with Louisiana Tech that fully acknowledges our governing documents,” said the two-sentence statement from the league. “We look forward to continued success and impact in the national landscape, driven by the collective strength and shared vision of our 10 (remaining) member institutions.”
Although plenty of reports recently surfaced that the two sides (the University of Louisiana System and Tech vs. CUSA) had reached some sort of financial agreement, the statement put a final nail in the proverbial separation coffin.
The university confirmed it.
“We’ve reached a fair and equitable agreement with Conference USA, our partner for 13 years,” said a statement released by Louisiana Tech. “The move to the Sun Belt Conference in July is one that will benefit the health and well-being of our student athletes, the fiscal stability of our athletics department, and the economic vitality of our entire region. Our Bulldogs and Lady Techsters look forward to renewing rivalries with the Ragin’ Cajuns, Warhawks, Golden Eagles, and all of the Sun Belt members. Go Dogs!”
After months of no progress in an agreement to reach a financial settlement, the ULS filed a lawsuit on behalf of Louisiana Tech in early March. The two sides’ legal teams went back and forth over the last few months without ever meeting to court, although a number of legal documents were filed in both district and federal courts.
Tech officials said that the financial terms of the agreement are confidential. Last Thursday, the ULS System board of supervisors went into executive session to discuss Tech’s plan to make the separation payment, and approved it.
A national media outlet announced a few weeks ago that the two sides had agreed to a final price of roughly $8 million. However, based on historical precent, that number seems high, sources indicated.
Tech AD Ryan Ivey said that he is glad to move forward with eyes set on July 1.
“We are excited about the opportunity to be in the Sun Belt,” said Ivey. “It gives us the momentum we need to help our department and student athletes and the future of Louisiana Tech Athletics.”
Contact Malcolm at lpjnewsla@gmail.com