The tension between the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and its member schools, Clemson and Florida State, is heating up as the 2024 season approaches. ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips addressed the media at the ACC Kickoff in Charlotte, N.C., stating that despite the ongoing legal battles, the day-to-day operations of the conference will continue as usual. Phillips assured that the ACC will vigorously defend itself against the lawsuits from the two schools regarding withdrawal penalties and the grant of media rights deal that extends until 2036. The ACC has already filed countersuits against Clemson and Florida State.
Phillips emphasized the importance of protecting the ACC and its members, expressing confidence in the conference’s future as a premier athletic association. He described the disputes as damaging, disruptive, and harmful to the league. Florida State initiated the legal action in December, citing years of mismanagement by the ACC and objecting to the withdrawal penalties. Clemson followed suit in March, raising similar concerns about the withdrawal process and media rights agreement.
The commissioner pointed out that both Clemson and Florida State willingly signed the rights agreement in 2013 and 2016, indicating their initial support for the ACC Network. Phillips stressed the unity of the ACC and the need for collective loyalty, stating that the interests of the conference as a whole supersede those of individual institutions. He highlighted the longstanding history of the ACC, which was established 71 years ago and will endure beyond his tenure.
In addition to addressing the legal challenges, Phillips discussed the expansion of the ACC to include 17 football programs for the upcoming season. The conference welcomed Cal and Stanford from the Pac-12, as well as SMU from the American Athletic Conference. Despite the ongoing legal battles, Phillips remains committed to upholding the integrity and unity of the ACC, ensuring its continued success in the world of college athletics.