By Aaron Williams–

Memphis will join the ranks of Houston, Central Florida and SMU as the latest school to join the newly designed Big East. The University of Memphis Tigers made the official announcement on Wednesday, Feb. 8.

“This is a historical day for the University of Memphis,” said President Dr. Shirley C. Raines in a press release. “On behalf of the faculty, staff, alumni, fans, students and especially, our student-athletes, we are thrilled to accept the invitation from the Big East Conference to become a member in all sports in 2013. We are grateful to President Judy Genshaft and the entire Big East Conference Board for their unanimous vote for the University of Memphis and Tiger athletics.”

Raines made the announcement alongside Big East commissioner John Marinatto.

The Tigers have made it clear they intend to join the Big East in all sports capacities, which incudes both football and basketball. Memphis will be the 12th team added to the Big East’s football division. The Tigers are full members of the Big East but will compete against football-only members, such as new additions Boise State and San Diego State, as well as older members of the conference, such as the Louisville Cardinals.

Memphis will begin competing in Big East play in 2013.

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