Northern Illinois, a longtime member of the Mid-American Conference, is joining the Horizon League for most of its sports offerings starting with the 2026-27 academic year. That includes men's and women's basketball, which will increase the Horizon League's basketball pools to 12 schools.

Northern Illinois’ non-football sports are joining the Horizon League, per Action Network. There are two exceptions, as wrestling and gymnastics aren’t represented in the Horizon. The move is pending approval of the school’s board.

After opting to join the Mountain West Conference in football only, Northern Illinois athletics is set to make another conference move this week.

Northern Illinois accepted an invitation to join the Horizon League in basketball and most other sports except football on Thursday. The Huskies are set to become the league's 12th member and compete in 14 of its 19 sports starting with the 2026-27 academic year.

Just over a month removed from announcing their intention to join the Mountain West in football, NIU find a new conference partner for the majority of its remainder sports.