DBU Baseball Joins Pac-12: Athletic Director Matt Duce on Program Growth and Future

Historic Move to the Pac-12

• 🚀 DBU baseball is joining the Pac-12 Conference in 2026, marking a significant moment in the university's history.
• 💡 The move was prompted by a rapidly changing collegiate athletics landscape, including the departure of Louisiana Tech from Conference USA.
• ✅ DBU is thrilled about the announcement and has received positive feedback from alumni, parents, and recruits.

Competitive Outlook and Recruiting Advantages

• 🎯 DBU anticipates a tougher challenge in the new conference but is confident in its ability to compete and win.
• 🌟 The move opens up the West Coast for recruiting, elevating the profile of DBU baseball to a national audience.
• 📈 DBU views this as a step up in every way, attracting prospective student-athletes with national brands and a strong program.

Program Growth and University Development

• 📈 DBU has experienced exponential growth since 1988, with significant development under Chancellor and President Dr. Wright.
• ✨ The university has a vibrant energy, driven by its Christian mission and supported by new initiatives like the Carter School of Business.
• 🏆 For Matt Duce, a former student-athlete, this move is a dream come true, reflecting his personal history of watching Pac-10 teams.

Navigating NIL and Future Resources

• 💰 DBU is feeling the external pressures of NIL and has opted into the House settlement rules for collegiate athletics.
• 🤝 The program is confident in its holistic approach to discipleship, mentorship, and athletic prowess, with plans for increased institutional NIL resources.

The DBU Baseball Success Formula

• 🙏 DBU attributes its success to divine providence, strong support from its board of trustees and presidents, and an incredible coaching staff led by Dan Heafner.
• 🌟 The program's faith-centered mission is a key attraction for recruits and a core part of its identity.
• 👏 The success is also built on the foundation of incredible student-athletes who have bought into the program's values and mission.