Texas, Texas Tech Vote to Join the Big Eight

After saying thanks for the memories, regents of the University of Texas and Texas Tech voted unanimously Friday to join Texas A&M; and Baylor in bolting the Southwest Conference and joining the Big Eight.

The exodus will leave the 80-year-old SWC with only four members--Rice, Southern Methodist, Houston and Texas Christian--when the new “Big 12” begins play in 1996. But SWC officials say they already are talking with potential new members.

Chancellor William Cunningham said the University of Texas system was committed to easing the transition for those schools.

Additional expansion has not been discussed, but Richard Peck, president of the University of New Mexico, said he would be willing to listen to a Big Eight offer.

Basketball

The injury-plagued Washington Bullets have invited former Seton Hall standout Andrew Gaze for a tryout, and are prepared to offer him a 10-day contract if he performs up to expectations.

Gaze has been playing for the Australian National team.

A Hamilton County grand jury will consider the evidence against Troy Smith, a former University of Louisville player, in the death of his girlfriend, Kelly Dwyer, on Feb. 18.

Golf

The United States holds a 7-1 advantage in the series, but fell behind when Devlin’s score was backed by a 66 for Bob Charles of New Zealand and 67 by Simon Hobday of South Africa.