Pac-12 commissioner George Kliavkoff claims UCLA 'better off' staying put as opposed to joining B1G

The Pac-12 is simply in its denial stage of grieving. Soon, it’ll cross over the bargaining stage in terms of adjusting to life post-USC and UCLA.

In his first public outing since Pac-12 Media Days, commissioner George Kliavkoff discussed the future departures of the Trojans and Bruins. And while perhaps Kliavkoff is content with USC leaving for B1G country, he is certain that UCLA should remain with the west coast conference.

According to Brett McMurphy, Kliavkoff told John Canzano and Jon Wilner that it would be better financially for the Bruins to remain in the Pac-12. Kliavkoff cited travel costs associated with UCLA in the B1G.

Pac-12’s George Kliavkoff tells @johncanzanobft @wilnerhotline "we are sure (UCLA) is better off financially by staying (in P-12 than joining Big Ten)." Kliavkoff says UCLA's travel costs will offset difference in media rights … Which is 1 reason B1G will add more from Pac-12

— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) September 20, 2022

The Bruins and Trojans are set to depart the Pac-12 for the start of the 2024 season after agreeing to join the B1G under the new media rights contract. Kliavkoff is certain that with how much it’ll cost for UCLA to travel across the country, its overall revenue will diminish in the grander scheme.

Kliavkoff suggested that the best course of action would be for the Bruins to remain out west if they hope to make a profit. He also isn’t shutting the door should athletic director Martin Jarmond elect to have a change of heart.

The Bruins and Trojans are both currently 3-0 to begin the 2022 season. The two programs are set to meet at the Rose Bowl on Nov. 19.