James Madison announces move to join the American conference

James Madison University has decided to leave the Sun Belt and join the American Athletic Conference by July 1, 2028. This decision, announced on October 12, comes ahead of a scheduled vote on increased exit fees from the Sun Belt. James Madison's exit fee is anticipated to be $5 million, along with a $23 million entrance fee to the American. The university has expressed gratitude for its time in the Sun Belt, which it joined in 2022. With this transition, JMU will become the 14th full member of the American Athletic Conference.

• 4:32 PMYahoo Sports — James Madison Joins the American Before Sun Belt Exit Fees Rise