Can a Big East/ACC Merger really happen?

 

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Summary

In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we dive into the game-changing idea of a Big East-ACC mega-conference. Sparked by Coach K’s bold suggestion, we explore how merging the two storied leagues could revolutionize college basketball while securing UConn’s place at the forefront of both football and basketball. From the potential structure of the new league to the rivalries it would reignite, this proposal is a dream scenario for fans of the Huskies and college sports alike. Plus, we discuss how streaming platforms like Netflix could play a pivotal role in broadcasting the new super-conference, creating a financially stable future for all programs involved.

 

Show Notes

 

Intro Monologue: The Vision for a Mega-Conference

• Host discusses why this is the only scenario where UConn joining the ACC makes sense: if the entire Big East comes along to form a super-conference.

• Proposal for a rebranded league: The Premier Conference (TPC) combining the ACC and Big East.

• Innovative media rights strategy: Separate contracts for football and basketball, with football remaining on traditional networks and basketball targeting streaming platforms like Netflix or Amazon.

• The benefits of streaming:

• Personalized advertising based on regional markets.

• Extending viewership from coast to coast with 28 unique schools across the country.

• Nostalgia meets innovation: Keeping Madison Square Garden as the home for the Big East Tournament while elevating basketball to equal footing with football.

 

Segment 1: Coach K’s Vision for a Basketball Revolution

• Coach K’s recent suggestion of merging the ACC and Big East to create a mega basketball conference.

• Key benefits:

• Reviving historical basketball rivalries while creating blockbuster matchups.

• Housing 12 of the last 15 NCAA men’s basketball champions in one league.

• Gaining financial stability to rival the SEC and Big Ten.

• Highlight of UConn’s position as a cornerstone program with Power Four football potential.

• Discussion on why this proposal makes sense for the ACC:

• Revitalizing a struggling conference.

• Expanding the league’s geographical footprint and media appeal.

• Adding marquee basketball programs like UConn, Georgetown, and Villanova to restore relevance.

 

Segment 2: Building the Mega-Conference – Structure and Rivalries

• Host expands on his May 2024 suggestion of the ACC and Big East merging to save UConn football and bolster basketball.

• Proposed two-division structure for TPC:

• East Division: Features Big East mainstays like UConn, Georgetown, Villanova, and Providence.

• South/West Division: Includes ACC powerhouses like Duke, North Carolina, Virginia, and Louisville, with additions like Stanford and Cal.

• Rivalries that would flourish in the new league:

• Classic Big East Matchups: UConn vs. Georgetown, Villanova vs. St. John’s.

• Blueblood Clashes: UConn vs. Duke, Villanova vs. North Carolina.

• Regional Renewals: Syracuse vs. UConn, Boston College vs. UMass (if BC is replaced).

• Cross-Country Intrigue: Stanford vs. Duke, Cal vs. Villanova.

• Why this benefits UConn:

• Stability for football in the ACC.

• Basketball remains at the center of the new super-league.

• Increased media revenue through traditional and streaming partnerships.

 

Conclusion: The Time is Now for Innovation

• Rick Pitino’s endorsement of the plan reinforces the need for long-term thinking and expansion.

• Why a Big East-ACC merger is the best way to preserve tradition while embracing modern college sports.

• UConn’s leadership role in shaping this basketball revolution.

• Streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon are the future, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth and fan engagement.

 

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