Topeka ? Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback and Kansas University officials say they’re pleased West Virginia is joining the Big 12.

Brownback said shortly after Friday’s announcement that he’s thrilled that the Big 12 is, in his words, “playing offense” and attracting new schools. Both West Virginia and Texas Christian University have joined the conference in recent weeks.

Three schools have left the conference, Nebraska, Colorado and Texas A&M. In a news release Friday, the Big 12 didn’t list Missouri as an expected member for 2012-13, but the school hasn’t made a formal announcement of its intentions.

Kansas University Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little said West Virginia will make an excellent addition to the conference because it has competitive teams and loyal fans.

“KU supports the addition of West Virginia University to join the Big 12 Conference,” KU Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little said. “With their highly competitive teams and loyal fan base, the Mountaineers make an outstanding addition to the Big 12 and Jayhawks look forward to competing against them.”

Kansas athletic director Sheahon Zenger was also pleased with the addition.

“We’re excited to welcome West Virginia University,” KU Athletics Director Sheahon Zenger said. “West Virginia is a proud, flagship University with a successful athletics program led by an outstanding individual, Oliver Luck. We look forward to competing against the Mountaineers.”