From late-night college football thrillers to March Madness upsets, the Mountain West Conference (MWC) continues to punch above its weight in NCAA athletics. While often flying under the radar compared to the Power 4, this mid-major league boasts elite programs, iconic rivalries, and a growing national profile.
Whether you’re a fan of Friday night football, competitive basketball, or the next NFL sleeper pick, the MWC is a conference you can’t ignore in 2025.
🌐 What Is the Mountain West Conference?
The Mountain West Conference is a collegiate athletic conference affiliated with NCAA Division I and the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Formed in 1999, the MWC comprises institutions primarily in the western United States.
Quick Facts:
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Founded: 1999
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Headquarters: Colorado Springs, CO
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Full Members (2025): 12 schools
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Primary Sports: Football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, soccer, track & field
🏈 Mountain West Football: Underdogs with Bite
The MWC is known for producing competitive football programs capable of knocking off bigger names. In fact, Mountain West schools have upset Power 4 teams nearly every season.
2025 Football Highlights:
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Defending Champion: Boise State
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Top Contenders: Fresno State, Air Force, Wyoming
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Championship Game: December 7, 2025 (Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas)
Expect another exciting season of late-night Mountain West football, including the popular “MWC After Dark” broadcasts on FS1 and CBS Sports.
🏀 MWC Basketball: March Madness Sleepers
The MWC is also gaining traction in college basketball. With multiple NCAA Tournament appearances in recent years, teams like San Diego State and Nevada continue to elevate the conference’s national reputation.
2025 Tournament Watch:
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Projected Bids: 2–3
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Top Teams: San Diego State, Utah State, New Mexico
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Championship Tourney: March 2026, Thomas & Mack Center (Las Vegas)
Watch out for breakout stars and buzzer-beaters — the Mountain West has become a March staple.
🏫 Member Schools (2025 Lineup)
Mountain Division:
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Boise State
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Utah State
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Colorado State
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Air Force
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Wyoming
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New Mexico
West Division:
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Fresno State
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San Diego State
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Nevada
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UNLV
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Hawaii
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San Jose State
Each of these schools brings unique traditions, fan culture, and athletic excellence to the MWC table.
🎯 Why the Mountain West Matters in 2025
While it may not be part of the Power 4, the MWC offers:
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Competitive parity: Multiple teams with real championship potential
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TV exposure: Weeknight games, national network deals
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NFL draft picks: From Josh Allen (Wyoming) to Khalil Mack (Buffalo, former MWC)
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Student-athlete focus: Strong balance of academics and athletics
Its programs have also pushed for more playoff inclusion and increased media rights visibility, making it one of the most strategic mid-major conferences in the NCAA.
📆 Key Games to Watch This Season
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Boise State vs. Fresno State – Rivalry & title implications
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Air Force vs. Colorado State – Battle for the Ram-Falcon Trophy
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San Diego State vs. Nevada – Basketball seeding on the line
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MWC Championship Game – December showdown in Vegas
These matchups will heavily shape standings and postseason outcomes in football and basketball.
📺 How to Follow Mountain West Games
Streaming & TV:
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CBS Sports Network
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FS1 & Fox Sports App
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Mountain West Digital Network
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ESPN+ for select events
In-Person:
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Affordable tickets & great campus atmospheres
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Family-friendly and alumni-packed tailgates
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Easy access in states like Nevada, Colorado, and New Mexico
🧠 FAQs About the Mountain West Conference
Q1. How many teams are in the Mountain West Conference?
12 full members compete in all major sports in 2025.
Q2. What states are represented in the MWC?
California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Hawaii, and Idaho.
Q3. Does the MWC have divisions?
Yes — Mountain and West, primarily for football.
Q4. Can MWC teams make the College Football Playoff?
While difficult, the expanded playoff format opens a possible path for undefeated champions.
Q5. Who are some famous MWC alumni?
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Josh Allen (Wyoming – NFL)
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Kawhi Leonard (San Diego State – NBA)
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Derek Carr (Fresno State – NFL)
📣 Hosting a Mountain West Event?
Whether you’re organizing a sports-themed meetup, alumni tailgate, or academic seminar featuring MWC schools, Events Notification has you covered.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, the Mountain West Conference is more than a regional league — it’s a national disruptor. From high-stakes football to bracket-busting basketball, the MWC offers drama, tradition, and talent worth watching every season.
👉 Stay informed, support your school, and list your Mountain West Conference events only at EventsNotification.com.
