UConn Eye Test Case for the B12

[Stinger92860]

This likely applies to the ACC as well.

After seeing the electric atmosphere at the recent Kansas game, I’ve been thinking about the actual value we would bring to the Big 12. While I don’t have hard financial data or TV ratings available to me, the "eye test" makes it obvious that both our men’s and women’s basketball programs would drive sellouts and heighten viewership for many of our away games in conference. Their fans will love to hate on Dan Hurley and the Women’s team also has a national following, albeit for a different reason. We wouldn’t just be another member; we would turn many regular season conference matchups into marquee national events, and there is undoubtedly a significant dollar value attached to that kind of consistent national buzz.

Furthermore, the narrative that our football program is a liability needs to be put to rest, especially considering we’ve gone 4-1 in our last five games against the ACC. We are proving we can compete against Power 4 mid-tier peers and drive attendance at Rentschler, meaning the program is at worse a break even rather than a drain. When you combine UConn’s competitive abilities with the fact that we deliver a Top 30 media market, boosted significantly when adding in Fairfield County’s reach into NYC DMA, the surface level metrics clearly suggest we have earned a spot in a major conference.

It is crucial that the next Football HC hire keeps the momentum trending up, whatever the cost.

 

[UConnJim]

I think Yormark is going to be proven right that college basketball is an undervalued asset. Look at the TV ratings for Thanksgiving for the Michigan St./North Carolina 6.5 million viewers and Duke/Arkansas 6.8 million viewers. Yes, the games benefitted from the NFL game lead ins, but the Duke/Arkansas game was the highest rated college basketball game in 32 years. And, it seems that the November games with brand named school matchups is a winner as well. I think this helps UConn in a big way. And, the interest in women's basketball is exploding and guess who has the best brand? Finally, for all the naysayers worried that ESPN can't afford sports rights... the demand for sports rights has exploded from a number of different networks/streamers which means value is going up!

 

[CL82]

I've often thought that the impact on the gate that our games have is an underappreciated benefit to having us join a conference. On the women's basketball side, it seems like there's a consistent pattern that playing against Connecticut causes teams to elevate their game. In the old Big East Notre Dame went from being mediocre to winning a championship. In the old American USF elevated its game and became a very good woman's basketball program. I think we're beginning to see some of that in the new big east now.

Attendance – wise the women pack houses wherever they go. Obviously, so to the men and equally importantly they're able to do it in "neutral sites" in major media markets. All of that has value, but I'm not sure that it ever is adequately expressed to perspective conferences. Alternatively, even if it is adequately expressed, it can't be fully appreciated until it is experienced. I wonder if that is a collateral benefit of the out of conference neutral site games that were playing. It gives teams the opportunity to experience those types of game environments.

 

[nelsonmuntz]

There may be an outside chance, after the chaos of this year's ACC championship, and the decline of FSU and Clemson, that the ACC could add UConn for football and basketball. It is long shot, but right now may be one of those rare situations in conference realignment where the product on the court/field actually matters.

There is no guarantee that Clemson or FSU will ever return to anywhere close to where they were. The Northern expansion of the ACC is a washout. Pitt and Louisville are mediocre, and BCU and Syracuse are terrible in both major sports. BCU was the reason UConn was not added, and now the ACC gets no value out of New England at all. In basketball, this is the best the ACC has been since before Covid, and it still only has one final four candidate, and maybe 3 teams (UNC, Louisville, UVa) that even have a shot at making the Sweet 16. The ACC has its long-term TV contract, whose end is not that far into the future anymore, and then what? The cash grab from adding SMU, Cal and Stanford is looking stupider every day, since none of those three programs really move the needle for the league, and outside of maybe Duke and BCU's alums, no one in the ACC cares about any of the new schools.

I know a lot of people on this board think there is some scenario where teams leave the ACC and the ACC comes for UConn. That scenario seems less likely than the ACC just adding UConn now. The SEC doesn't want FSU or Clemson, especially now, and the Big 10 doesn't either. UVa and UNC maybe, but their value is not a slam dunk to either the SEC or Big 10, and both would probably have a long buy in, which would make a switch less attractive to UVa and UNC. Outside of a "Prestige University Conference" (Duke, Stanford, Cal, Northwestern, Vanderbilt, Rice, etc.), I don't see even the possibility for more movement for years. In fact, I think media companies are going to be less likely to pay for big expansions now as cable's decline accelerates. Any expansion would need to be small or pay for itself.

There are a handful of influential people, like Krzyzewski, that want a merger with the Big East because of the history, and the urban markets. That seems unlikely, although not out of the question if the Big East brought its basketball contract with it to pay for the merger.

The ACC needs help in football and basketball, and there is nowhere for them to go for a program that helps them in either, beyond UConn and the Big East. UConn has proven it can win at the G5 level, and has the resources to compete if given the better platform. It proved this in basketball with its move from the AAC to the Big East. I also think that some of the P4 programs are getting frustrated with their conference mates that can't or won't try to compete or improve the product on the field/court.

I don't think anything will happen, but it is no longer completely out of the question that the ACC explores some kind of addition, even if UConn has to pay for much of it.

 

[ScottVib]

As stupid of an extra factor, it is... adding UConn now also solves the ACC's football scheduling problem (they can't schedule an even number of games for all schools in football). Starting next year one team will only play 8 conference games, while the rest play 9, I can't wait for the title game participant to be decided by a half game next year.

 

[nelsonmuntz]

As stupid of an extra factor, it is... adding UConn now also solves the ACC's football scheduling problem (they can't schedule an even number of games for all schools in football). Starting next year one team will only play 8 conference games, while the rest play 9, I can't wait for the title game participant to be decided by a half game next year.

A merger with the Big East could potentially be costless for the ACC, and get them access to a bunch of markets and UConn basketball and football.

 

[Waquoit]

Furthermore, the narrative that our football program is a liability needs to be put to rest, especially considering we’ve gone 4-1 in our last five games against the ACC.

I agree with the thought that the back markers of these leagues don't want UConn because UConn will be instantly superior. Look at PC pre-UConn return. Riding high! UConn comes back, their coach gets out of Dodge and they go back to the common ruck.

 

[WestCoastHusky]

A merger with the Big East could potentially be costless for the ACC, and get them access to a bunch of markets and UConn basketball and football.

When you look ahead to the 2031 media-rights cycle, it actually makes a lot of sense for the ACC and the Big East to consider some form of merger or consolidation. Broadcasters and streamers are shifting toward fewer, larger, “must-buy” packages, and a combined ACC–Big East product would give them exactly that: Power-conference football inventory plus the strongest basketball-focused league in the country, all under one umbrella. The timing is perfect, because several other major conference deals re-price in the early 2030s, and networks prefer to negotiate for big, national slates rather than multiple smaller ones. By bundling together the ACC’s football brands with the Big East’s elite basketball properties, both leagues immediately increase their total hours of premium programming, expand into more high-value TV markets, and create a cleaner, more valuable package that commands higher bids. This kind of consolidation also removes fragmentation in the marketplace — instead of ESPN, FOX, NBC, Amazon, or Apple bidding on two separate products, they’re bidding on one enlarged, year-round conference lineup, which historically pushes
the final number upward.

UConn is one of the biggest reasons this idea works. We are a true national basketball brand on both the men’s and women’s side, and adding that kind of marquee program boosts the value of any rights package immediately. UConn also brings access to the Northeast media corridor, which the ACC currently under-represents, and that matters a lot for advertisers and distribution negotiations. On top of that, UConn football is investing and trending up, making them a viable long-term asset for a league that still needs football depth and stability. Pairing UConn’s growing football presence with its elite basketball profile strengthens the ACC’s negotiating position significantly.

A merged or unified ACC–Big East front going into 2031 solves multiple problems at once: it increases scale, reduces the chance of poaching, diversifies both leagues’ media footprints, and gives broadcasters a single premium product with major inventory in both football and basketball. More inventory + more major markets + more national brands = more competition among bidders, which almost always equals more money. For both leagues—and especially for schools like UConn—the upside is obvious: stability, higher payouts, and a stronger long-term position in a media environment that’s moving toward consolidation whether conferences like it or not.

 

[WestCoastHusky]

From B12 point of view:

It makes sense for the Big 12 to add UConn now for all sports—with football joining fully in 2031—because it gives the conference immediate brand value while timing the football integration perfectly for the next media-rights negotiation. Bringing UConn’s men’s and women’s basketball into the league right away strengthens the Big 12’s identity as the country’s premier basketball conference, adding more top-10 matchups, more national eyeballs, and more content for networks to fight over. At the same time, setting 2031 as the football start date aligns UConn’s FBS value with the exact moment the Big 12 is negotiating its next TV contract, allowing the league to present broadcasters with a cleaner, expanded footprint that now reaches deep into the Northeast media corridor. By then, UConn’s football investment and on-field trajectory will be much stronger, letting the Big 12 sell growth potential instead of uncertainty. Adding UConn early also keeps the ACC from grabbing one of the last major national brands available, preserving the Big 12’s competitive advantage and ensuring the league—not the ACC—owns the marquee basketball property that can anchor major TV windows. In short, early entry for all sports builds value immediately, delayed football entry maximizes value at the perfect moment, and the combination gives the Big 12 more inventory, bigger markets, stronger negotiating leverage, and a better national narrative when it sits down to secure its 2031 media-rights payday.

UConn’s hiring of Jason Candle is another clear signal that the school is serious about elevating its football program and investing at a level that aligns with future Power-conference ambitions. Candle consistently produced winning seasons, NFL development, and explosive offenses at Toledo, and bringing in a coach with that track record shows UConn is done treating football as a placeholder. With renewed investment in staff, recruiting infrastructure, and scheduling more Power 4 opponents, UConn is positioning itself to be competitive by the time 2031 arrives. And if the Huskies start winning at a respectable clip, “The Rent” will absolutely be rocking again—UConn fans have already proven they’ll show up when the product is competitive. A rising football atmosphere combined with elite basketball brands only strengthens UConn’s value to a conference like the Big 12, especially heading into a pivotal media-rights cycle.

It is time for the B12 to act soon.

 

[BRS24]

@WestCoastHusky - as someone who doesn't follow the conference realign topic much, how do you think a potential ACC/BE merger would work? DYT that some of the current BE teams would move to a different conference and would some ACC teams also exit? Not to pick on a few (but I will), however BC and Syracuse haven't lived up to the expectations they had in their own heads. I think the ACC would be much more advantageous for us vs the B12 based on geography?

 

[ScottVib]

In the event (which I think is very slim) that the ACC wanted to go to a hybrid model and the Big East schools, who rejected the hybrid approach when they left to form the current Big East are suddenly willing to entertain it... I don't see a wholesale merger. The ACC has the money and the power... they can be selective; they're not chasing Butler/DePaul (they have Notre Dame covering Indy & Chicago). Providence is stuck between BC & UConn & may be left out, while St. John's and Villanova would probably make the cut.

 

[Jimdish255]

I wouldn't take a no-pay or pay to play "deal" from the ACC under any circumstance. Cal and Stanford are not thriving there and it has to be a strain logistically on their athletes. IMO they will be out the door if a more regional opportunity arises. I feel differently about the B12 because I believe there was sincere interest from the leadership even if it didn't generate majority consent. The ACC blockers were petty and short sighted and that seems to define the league. If they want us it should be on similar terms to what BC/Cuse/Pitt received when they were added. They screwed up and desperation mode makes us less valuable and incentivizes them stringing us along and pulling the football again. There's zero reason for another humiliating dog and pony show. Everybody knows who we are and what facilities and successes we have. Anyone demanding that is not serious and should be taken seriously.

 

[CL82]

From B12 point of view:

It makes sense for the Big 12 to add UConn now for all sports—with football joining fully in 2031—because it gives the conference immediate brand value while timing the football integration perfectly for the next media-rights negotiation. Bringing UConn’s men’s and women’s basketball into the league right away strengthens the Big 12’s identity as the country’s premier basketball conference, adding more top-10 matchups, more national eyeballs, and more content for networks to fight over. At the same time, setting 2031 as the football start date aligns UConn’s FBS value with the exact moment the Big 12 is negotiating its next TV contract, allowing the league to present broadcasters with a cleaner, expanded footprint that now reaches deep into the Northeast media corridor. By then, UConn’s football investment and on-field trajectory will be much stronger, letting the Big 12 sell growth potential instead of uncertainty. Adding UConn early also keeps the ACC from grabbing one of the last major national brands available, preserving the Big 12’s competitive advantage and ensuring the league—not the ACC—owns the marquee basketball property that can anchor major TV windows. In short, early entry for all sports builds value immediately, delayed football entry maximizes value at the perfect moment, and the combination gives the Big 12 more inventory, bigger markets, stronger negotiating leverage, and a better national narrative when it sits down to secure its 2031 media-rights payday.

UConn’s hiring of Jason Candle is another clear signal that the school is serious about elevating its football program and investing at a level that aligns with future Power-conference ambitions. Candle consistently produced winning seasons, NFL development, and explosive offenses at Toledo, and bringing in a coach with that track record shows UConn is done treating football as a placeholder. With renewed investment in staff, recruiting infrastructure, and scheduling more Power 4 opponents, UConn is positioning itself to be competitive by the time 2031 arrives. And if the Huskies start winning at a respectable clip, “The Rent” will absolutely be rocking again—UConn fans have already proven they’ll show up when the product is competitive. A rising football atmosphere combined with elite basketball brands only strengthens UConn’s value to a conference like the Big 12, especially heading into a pivotal media-rights cycle.

It is time for the B12 to act soon.

The big 12 won't do anything until the dust settles from any potential ACC departures. We heard from big 12 presidents that they have a preference for expanding using existing P4 schools rather than elevating a non-P4 school.

 

[Kolumbo]

UConn is consistently in the news. The basketball teams are obviously brilliant and big draws. Football with the 9-3 record, beating ACC teams, coaching changes, receiving votes. Home run coaching hire with Coach Candle. Hockey, baseball, soccer have been in the news. The UConn Brand is extremely strong. our old mates thought UConn was dead after realignment but UConn has excelled while they have floundered

Indiana and puke basketball schools are winning football conference championships. Big XII teams are opting out of bowl games. The paradigm has changed. Any program can be successful if they know what they are doing and put in the work. any program can fail.

No Athletic Department in the country is doing more with less better than UConn is doing it. UConn is doing more than most P4 programs. It just makes no sense that the Big XII and ACC are still too stubborn to realize the obvious.

 

[jostar1]

BCU was the reason UConn was not added, and now the ACC gets no value out of New England at all.

They get value from the ACC Network.

 

[ScottVib]

If they want us it should be on similar terms to what BC/Cuse/Pitt received when they were added.

The landscape is much different than 2005 or 2011. Once Washington & Oregon took reduced payouts to go to the Big Ten, the math changed for "non-premium" (read Notre Dame, UNC, etc) additions to P4 conferences. Stanford & Cal took half payouts, if UConn was offered something like that with an eventual bump-up; you take it, if you don't someone else would (happily).