UConn becomes appealing to ACC due to basketball success

UConn has long sought a place in a power conference, and the landscape of college sports is shifting. As the NCAA prepares for new revenue sharing, UConn’s path to a big conference may not just be wishful thinking anymore. Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark believes UConn’s brand and fanbase matter. He has pushed for the school’s inclusion, but hasn’t yet convinced the conference’s leaders. Meanwhile, the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) faces challenges. The ACC’s stronghold in college basketball is fading, as only four teams from the conference made it to the NCAA Tournament. Duke coach Jon Scheyer expressed concerns about the ACC’s performance. He noted that the top football conferences have increasingly dominated NCAA success. In contrast, the ACC needs to consider expanding for basketball, which is where UConn could help. UConn boasts two national championships and is a recognized name in basketball. Their recent success, including winning nine games in football, boosts their profile. This makes UConn more appealing to potential conferences despite its struggling football program. Strengthened coaching and upcoming games against established teams could further enhance UConn's position. The ACC has expanded its membership, but adding UConn could help rejuvenate its basketball reputation. Some have suggested a partnership between the Big East and the ACC might work, as both conferences face their own issues in basketball. The idea of merging conferences could reduce travel burdens and focus more on regional play. This change may be vital as college sports continue to evolve. Fans may tune in to UConn games for curiosity and engagement, even if the school is still carving its path in football. Overall, the climate appears to be changing in UConn's favor, and the future looks promising as they seek to join a stronger conference.