Southland Conference officials have made a visit to the University of New Orleans as they prepare to make a final determination on the school's petition for membership in the conference.
UNO officials said they were optimistic after the Thursday visit.
Southland Conference Commissioner Tom Burnett was joined in New Orleans by Southeastern Louisiana University President John Crain, Stephen F. Austin President Baker Pattillo and McNeese State Athletic Director Tommy McClelland. He the group was extremely impressed with UNO's athletic facilities, especially Lakefront Arena.