Because if they don't, the P4 could use it as grounds to officially separate from the rest (either within the NCAA or without). If that happens, UConn will lose a lot more than 600k in marketing. If we pay what is effectively a fine, we will stay in Division 1. Also, keep in mind within the next decade UConn will likely join the ACC after it has some defections. We will ultimately be okay. Also, a budget crises can be solved by a few old guys in the state dying in the same year as has happened before. The boomer population is going to start dying and there will be a lot of estate taxes that the state will be able to use to fund things in the next 15-20 years.