There are several statements about the ACC you can make without hesitation.
Say what you will about the ACC’s base media deal – we know it, the schools know it, we all know that it’s a mess.
The unequal revenue distribution model is something several ACC schools wanted and is now on its way.
Nobody thinks it’s a long-term solution, but not doing it becomes a PR fiasco as schools like Clemson, FSU, and others would certainly let their dissatisfaction publically known regarding this. In this case, a little quiet doesn’t hurt.
What is also true though is that ACC Network continues to exceed all expectations.
Recently we wrote how ESPN’s ties to ACC Network make it beyond preposterous that they would take part in orchestrating the demise of the ACC. Anyone that posts such a scenario has a complete lack of understanding of the ties that bind the ACC and ESPN together.
That’s (15 * $9 Million) $135 Million – (15 * $10 Million) $150 Million to the ACC from the ACC Network. As it’s a 50/50 venture with ESPN, that’s $135 Million – $150 Million also going to ESPN. This is even higher than my estimates of last year which topped out at $140 Million.
These numbers were based on the full distribution of the ACC Network, and again we underestimated them.
Georgia Tech in their recent financial statement reported they made $9 Million off the ACC Network.
It’s right there in print on page 12.
For the Fiscal year ending 2021-2022, that’s not the entire year of COMCAST distribution which started in December of 2021. It’s only half. The ACC can expect another $1-3 Million for a full year. From the math above – that’s $150 Million to $180 Million going to ESPN.
Please someone explain to me how or why ESPN is going to orchestrate the demise of the ACC again?
