A case can be made for Denver to the Horizon. The school recruits heavily from Great Lakes cities/suburbs, both for athletes and general students, and unlike the Summit, almost the entire Horizon is within a short distance from major airports with direct flights to Denver. Denver to Chicago is less than $100, while it's closer to $250 for Omaha and Chicago. This is because Denver is a major hub, and airports in the Midwest and West all flay directly there.

That is not an off the wall scenario. Denver would prefer to be in the WCC, but that is not likely for the next decade. The Summit was always something of a stable resting point. I don't think they are wedded to it for life.

I still think the Horizon will end up standing pat at 9, because Belmont will say no, and Denver is still more likely to say no than yes, while Kansas City, Omaha, and Purdue-Indy simply don't have programs good enough to invite.