Now that VCU has bolted to the Atlantic 10, one question remains: Was George Mason ever a legitimate option to leave the Colonial Athletic Association? Maybe not. According to CBS Sports, the A-10 wanted VCU rather than GMU. Several days ago, GMU athletic director Tom O’Connor announced the school would stay in the CAA. When coaches withdraw names from job openings it’s usually for one reason: They’re not getting the position.
But O’Connor said they weren’t trying to play that game.
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“From the start, we have said we had formal conversations with the Atlantic 10, but we did not apply nor did they offer any membership,” O’Connor said. “If they would have offered, we’re not sure we would have accepted.”
Adding to the issues, there’s talk that Old Dominion may leave soon, too. Losing the Richmond market is bad; losing Norfolk would be as well. Regardless of who’s decision it was, the CAA at least has maintained a spot in the Washington market. For now, they’ll take any victories.
– John Keim
