UTEP Athletic Director Jim Senter Gears Up for Mountain West Transition

On July 1, UTEP will officially transition to the Mountain West Conference, marking a significant milestone for the Miners after a two-year wait. Athletic Director Jim Senter, who joined UTEP in 2017, has been pivotal in this move, fulfilling a long-held goal of fans. The transition comes with financial implications, as UTEP had to manage costs, including $8 million in exit fees from Conference USA, funded largely by the Climb Higher Initiative, which raised $12 million last year. Fans are encouraged to support the program, as UTEP anticipates new revenue opportunities, including a share from the Mountain West Plus streaming service. Enhancements to the fan experience, including marketing efforts and new seating arrangements, are also planned for the upcoming football season.

Key Details: • Official transition to Mountain West Conference starts July 1, 2026. • UTEP raised $12 million through the Climb Higher Initiative, with $8 million for exit fees. • Fans will need to subscribe to Mountain West Plus for full game access. • Projected revenue-sharing pool for UTEP is $3.45 million this season. • New marketing strategies and fan experience enhancements will be implemented.