The Great Southwest Athletic Conference (GSAC) has announced the addition of Nevada State University as its newest member institution, marking a significant step forward for the Scorpions’ rapidly developing athletics program. The move comes following Nevada State’s approval as a full member of the NAIA during the 2026 NAIA National Convention. Both memberships will officially take effect on July 1, 2026.
Located in Henderson, Nevada State strengthens the GSAC’s presence in the western United States while aligning with a conference recognized as one of the NAIA’s premier leagues. Through GSAC affiliation, Nevada State’s teams will have the opportunity to compete in conference play and, upon meeting eligibility requirements, qualify for postseason championships.
“We are excited to welcome Nevada State University to the GSAC. Adding the first NAIA institution in the state of Nevada is a milestone for the association. We look forward to watching the Scorpions grow their athletics department and supporting their mission to expand opportunities to students within the state,” said GSAC Commissioner Mike Daniels.
Nevada State’s acceptance into the NAIA positions its athletics programs alongside more than 250 member institutions nationwide, providing student-athletes access to national competition while emphasizing a balance between athletics, academics, and character development.
“This milestone represents far more than membership; it’s an opportunity for our student-athletes to compete for championships, to measure themselves against top programs, and to experience the true spirit of collegiate athletics,” said Yvonne Wade, Nevada State’s Director of Athletics. “We are excited to align with governing bodies that share our commitment to access, opportunity, and the holistic development of student-athletes.”
Nevada State began building its athletics department with the hiring of Wade as the institution’s first Director of Athletics on July 1, 2025. The Scorpions launched competition during the 2025–26 academic year, sponsoring Women’s Flag Football and Men’s Track and Field as their initial programs.
Beginning in fall 2026, Nevada State will expand its athletics offerings to include Women’s Track and Field, Women’s and Men’s Indoor Track and Field, and Women’s and Men’s Cross Country. As part of its provisional GSAC membership, the university also plans to add at least one additional sport for the 2027–28 academic year.
“Today marks an exceptionally significant moment for Nevada State University as we are officially welcomed into the NAIA,” said Acting President Amber Lopez Lasater. “This milestone reflects our commitment to expanding access and opportunity for student-athletes while building a program grounded in academic excellence, competitive integrity, and community engagement.”
The GSAC, comprised of institutions with a shared commitment to academic and athletic excellence, has established itself as a consistent national contender. GSAC member institutions have combined to win 55 national championships, highlighting the conference’s tradition of success at the highest level of NAIA competition.