The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) recently added California, Stanford, and SMU to its roster, a move that has left ACC commissioner Jim Phillips feeling optimistic about the league’s future. Phillips stated that he has never been more confident in the ACC’s health and emphasized his commitment to ensuring its long-term success. However, the addition of these new schools comes after a turbulent summer for the ACC, with Florida State expressing concerns about the league’s revenue distribution model and hinting at the possibility of leaving. Despite these challenges, Phillips remains focused on running the ACC and addressing any concerns raised by member institutions.
The ACC’s decision to expand its membership was influenced by the realignment moves made by other conferences, such as the Big Ten and Big 12, which resulted in the weakening of the Pac-12. By adding California, Stanford, and SMU, the ACC aims to strengthen its position and protect its future. While the men’s basketball coaches in the ACC support these additions, they also acknowledge that further realignment may be on the horizon.
Miami coach Jim Larranaga believes that more alignment changes are likely to occur in the near future, stating, “There’s going to be some other moves happening. This year, next year, or in the next five.” Duke coach Jon Scheyer echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that realignment is an ongoing process and that the ACC must adapt to remain competitive. Despite the uncertainty, both coaches express their satisfaction with the ACC’s proactive approach to expansion.
Virginia coach Tony Bennett, who has experience coaching in the Pac-10, acknowledges that the recent additions to the ACC were primarily driven by football, viewership, and financial considerations. While he respects the institutions joining the ACC, Bennett raises questions about how this realignment will unfold and highlights the need for careful planning. He remains confident in the stability of the ACC but acknowledges the unpredictable nature of conference realignment.
ACC commissioner Jim Phillips also addressed the possibility of changes to the postseason conference tournaments in basketball. He suggests that not all 18 teams in the new-look ACC may participate in these tournaments, emphasizing the importance of earning a spot based on performance. Phillips believes that the ACC’s postseason tournaments should be reserved for the most deserving teams and is not keen on adding additional days to the schedule.
In conclusion, while the ACC celebrates its recent additions and the optimism surrounding the league’s future, there is an underlying awareness among coaches that realignment is an ongoing process. The ACC remains committed to adapting and ensuring its long-term success, but the ever-changing landscape of college sports may bring further changes in the years to come.