The Atlantic-10 Conference, one of the main early stories of the NCAA Tournament, has added a new member in 2006 Final Four participant George Mason.
“I am honored and excited to welcome George Mason to the Atlantic 10 Conference. They are a perfect fit for our league with world-class academic programs and a nationally successful intercollegiate athletic program,” stated A-10 Commissioner Bernadettee V. McGlade in the official release. “The addition of Mason further strengthens our footprint, enhances our brand and will allow us to continue to build on our national prominence and success in men’s basketball and all sports.”
George Mason, located in Fairfax, VA, joins Richmond and VCU as the Virginia programs in the Atlantic-10. The conference, known primarily for strong basketball programs, has 21 championship sports and ranks second highest in the NCAA in student athlete graduation rate.