The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has made a significant move in response to the ongoing realignment in college athletics. In a vote held by the ACC Board of Directors, it was announced that Stanford University, the University of California (Cal), and Southern Methodist University (SMU) will become full members of the conference starting in the 2024-25 school year. This decision was made with careful consideration for both athletic and academic excellence, as well as the overall strengthening of the ACC.
ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips, Ph.D., expressed excitement about welcoming these three prestigious institutions into the conference, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome three world-class institutions to the ACC, and we look forward to having them compete as part of our amazing league.” Emphasizing the ACC’s commitment to providing the best possible experience for student-athletes, Phillips praised the efforts of the ACC Board of Directors and President Ryan in ensuring that these new additions would benefit the conference in various ways. The ACC is proud to extend its warm welcome to the student-athletes, coaches, staff, and entire campus communities, as well as the alumni and fans of Stanford, Cal, and SMU.
The inclusion of Stanford and Cal in the ACC has also had significant implications for the Pac-12 conference. With only two schools committed beyond the 2023-24 seasons (Washington State and Oregon State), the Pac-12 has experienced a significant decline, losing eight schools within the past month. USC and UCLA have already announced their departure to the Big Ten, while Arizona, Arizona State, Utah, and Colorado will join the Big 12. As rumors circulated regarding a potential move to the ACC for Stanford and Cal, there was some uncertainty. However, the decision has now been confirmed.
Previously, there were concerns regarding the addition of these three schools from Clemson, North Carolina, Florida State, and NC State. However, in a straw poll conducted three weeks ago, the majority voted in favor of the additions. ESPN has reported that Stanford and Cal are expected to receive a 30% revenue share upon joining the ACC, while SMU will not receive any broadcast revenue for the first nine years.
Stanford University President Richard P. Saller expressed gratitude for the ACC’s invitation, stating, “Stanford welcomes the invitation extended by the ACC member universities, and we are excited to join them beginning in 2024.” Saller highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between academic and athletic pursuits at Stanford and praised the efforts of Commissioner Jim Phillips and the ACC member institutions in creating a promising future for student-athletes at a national level.
With the addition of Stanford, Cal, and SMU, the ACC will now consist of 18 members, with 17 playing football. Notre Dame will continue to compete as an independent. The geographic shift resulting from Stanford and Cal joining a conference predominantly located in the Eastern Time Zone has raised concerns about increased travel for student-athletes. The departure of several Pac-12 schools to conferences in the Midwest and East Coast has prompted criticism from Missouri Tigers head football coach Eli Drinkwitz, who questioned whether these decisions were made with the best interests of student-athletes in mind.
In terms of logistics, travel for baseball and softball teams has been a particularly pressing concern. Drinkwitz raised important questions about the impact of cross-country travel on these student-athletes and their mental health. Sleep deprivation due to late-night return flights from away games can have a significant impact on overall well-being. The long-term effects of these decisions on student-athletes involved in less high-profile sports, such as baseball and softball, must be taken into consideration.
As the ACC prepares for its expanded membership and the future collaboration between Stanford, Cal, and SMU, the conference aims to foster a supportive environment for all student-athletes. While realignment in college athletics has its benefits, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being and needs of student-athletes to ensure a balanced and positive experience for all involved.
Joe Morgan is a Sports Reporter for Fox News.
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