ACC commissioner Jim Phillips asked about possible departures of Clemson, Florida State

USA Today

6 days ago

ACC commissioner Jim Phillips believes the league is on solid ground following settlements with Clemson and Florida State—and insists both programs are satisfied with how things turned out.
Clemson emerged with everything it sought, including access to its full media rights, a favorable exit fee, and an updated brand initiative policy. At Tuesday's Commissioner's Forum during ACC Football Kickoff in Charlotte, Phillips said the process was handled fairly and doesn't foresee future friction.
'If you want to earn more money, then you're going to need to invest,' Phillips said. 'Go perform in football and basketball, draw viewership, schedule strong non-conference games—those are the factors that will separate schools.'
Phillips referenced Clemson's upcoming season opener against LSU as a key example of how schools can generate additional revenue through visibility and competitive matchups. He emphasized that everyone receives a base share of viewership revenue, but bonuses are tied to performance metrics and audience draw.
'It may not fit every league, but it was the right reconciliation for our league,' Phillips said of the ACC's updated model.
He also shot down concerns that Clemson or Florida State might return with further demands. According to Phillips, both schools were transparent about what they wanted, and the league responded in a way that left everyone content.
'Since March, I've not felt stronger about this league than I do right now,' he said. 'It's not hyperbole. With record revenue distribution, national championships, and rising football success, we're in a great position moving forward.'
Financially, the ACC is trending upward. The league recently reported its highest gross revenue ever—over $711 million for the 2023-24 fiscal year. That marked a 56% jump over five years, and per-school payouts averaged $45 million, also a record.
The ACC ranked among the top three power conferences in both total revenue and average school distribution.
'People said a lot of things about the league,' Phillips said, 'but we never wavered. We stayed steady and exercised our partnership with ESPN, which secures our platform into the next decade.'
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