The Mtn cable television network is going to be shut down on May 31, 2012. The Mountain West Conference is reportedly working on a deal with CBS Sports Network that would increase the league's reach, according to the Sports Business Journal.
The channel's 44 employees were informed of the decision late this afternoon during a meeting at their Denver HQs. Sources indicate that CBS Sports Network and the Mountain West Conference are close to finalizing a deal for the conference's rights that will wind up increasing national distribution for the Mountain West's upcoming football and basketball games. CBS Sports Network is in around 45 million homes.
Related: Conference Realignment: Mountain West, Conference USA Not Ruling Out Any Option
MWC commissioner Craig Thompson released a statement on the move:
"This is simply one step in the ongoing, evolutionary process which is focused on developing a new organization and structure. The goals continue to be creating greater stability, broader exposure platforms and increased revenue and we are progressing in each of those areas with the appropriate parties."
Stay tuned to SB Nation Denver for more updates. Head to SB Nation College Football for more in-depth coverage of the 2012 NCAA college football season.