Big East and ESPN Announce Landmark Six-Year Media Rights Agreement

Big East Conference Announces New Six-Year Digital Media Rights deal With ESPN

May 7, 2024

The Big East Conference and ESPN announced a significant six-year digital media rights deal on Tuesday. This partnership promises increased visibility for all Big East sports, particularly women’s basketball and Olympic sports.

Big East Commissioner Val Ackerman stated that the agreement will provide “all 22 of our sports – especially women’s basketball and Olympic sports – the visibility they’ve earned and the access our fans expect.” she emphasized the commitment to showcasing Big East teams on a leading digital sports platform.

ESPN previously held the rights to the Big East from 1980 to 2013. the renewed collaboration follows ESPN’s loss of Big Ten media rights to Fox, NBC, and CBS in 2022. This deal signifies a strategic move for ESPN to bolster its college sports portfolio.

Nick Dawson, ESPN’s senior vice president of programming and acquisitions, expressed enthusiasm about welcoming the Big East back to ESPN. He highlighted the conference’s tradition of excellence and anticipated a successful new chapter in their relationship.

ESPN+ will stream over 300 Big East events each year. While the financial details of the agreement remain undisclosed, the deal is expected to significantly benefit both organizations. The Big East recently concluded a competitive 2024-2025 campaign.

The UConn women’s basketball team secured its 12th national title in April, leading the conference’s achievements. The St. John’s men’s basketball team also enjoyed a successful regular season,earning a no. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

The Big East Conference has a rich history in college athletics, known for its competitive spirit and passionate fan base. This new deal with ESPN is poised to elevate the conference’s profile and reach a wider audience. The agreement underscores the growing importance of digital media rights in the evolving landscape of college sports broadcasting.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Big east and ESPN Deal

• What is the duration of the new Big East-ESPN deal?

  the new agreement between the Big East Conference and ESPN is for six years.

• how many Big East events will be streamed on ESPN+ annually?

  ESPN+ will stream over 300 Big East events each year as part of the new deal.

• What sports will benefit from increased visibility through this partnership?

  All 22 Big East sports will benefit, with a particular focus on women’s basketball and Olympic sports.

• When did ESPN previously have the rights to the Big East?

  ESPN previously held the rights to the Big East from 1980 to 2013.

• Why is this deal vital for the Big East Conference?

  This deal provides the Big East with increased visibility and access for its teams and fans on a leading digital sports platform.

• What was a recent highlight for the Big East in the 2024-2025 season?

  The UConn women’s basketball team won its 12th national title in April.

• What prompted ESPN to seek this partnership with the Big East?

  ESPN sought to bolster its college sports portfolio after losing Big Ten media rights to other networks.

What are your thoughts on this new partnership? Share your comments below and let us know how you think this will impact the Big East Conference!