Clemson has reached a settlement with the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in its long-standing lawsuit over the Grant of Rights. The 20-year deal, which was set to expire in 2036, has been effectively wiped away.
The terms of the settlement are significant, as they provide Clemson with clarity on what it would cost to leave the conference. If a school wants to exit in fiscal year 2026, the price tag is $165 million, decreasing by $18 million per year until reaching $75 million in 2030-31. This new information gives schools a clear understanding of the costs involved.
Clemson and Florida State were among the schools that filed lawsuits to gain clarity on the Grant of Rights, which was previously considered unbreakable. However, the ACC has agreed to revise its revenue sharing model and provide more flexibility for member schools.
The settlement is seen as a major victory for Clemson, as it provides the school with the freedom to make decisions about its future without being tied down by an outdated agreement. President Jim Clements hailed the settlement as a great home for Clemson, and Trustee Bill Smith praised the professional manner in which the school handled the negotiations.
The deal also marks a significant shift in the college athletics landscape, as it paves the way for more schools to exit their conferences without facing severe penalties. The Big Ten’s current media rights deal expires at the end of 2029-30, and this new information could have implications for future conference realignments.
With the court case now over, Clemson can move forward with confidence, knowing that it has the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances in college athletics while being well-compensated for its continued high achievement.
Source: https://clemson.rivals.com/news/historic-day-for-clemson