Stillwater area Legislators release statement regarding the University of Oklahoma’s intent to leave the Big 12

Stillwater area Legislators Sen. Tom Dugger, R-Stillwater; Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater; and Rep. John Talley, R-Stillwater, released the following statement regarding the University of Oklahoma’s intent to leave the Big 12 athletic conference.

“As representatives of the Stillwater community, we are gravely disappointed and feel blind-sided to read news reports that over the past months the University of Oklahoma (OU) has chosen to advance the interest of the University of Texas as a partner instead of the State of Oklahoma. 

“It is very concerning that it appears the lack of transparency was deliberate, the motives entirely self-serving, and the timing calculated, all to culminate at a time when the Oklahoma Legislature is out of session. It is further troublesome the manner in which OU has treated their business partners in the Big 12, and we question their commitment to the state’s success going forward.  These missteps surely demonstrate lack in judgment and a lapse in the manner of leadership expected from a state institution. 

“We have confidence in President Kayse Shrum, athletic director Chad Weiberg and the Oklahoma State University (OSU) leadership team and are certain OSU and the Stillwater community will continue to enjoy success in all endeavors.”