And there’s also some reasons why it is not a good move right now. Who the hell’s in the big 12 ? Kansas (if they stay) Kansas State, West Virginia(program will falter with huggie gone)TCU, Oklahoma State, Iowa State, Nebraska -yawn. Again aac all over again with the way things r trending. Hopefully we ve learned our lesson. Things are so ridiculous now.
I can think of approximately 51 million reasons a year why it would be different than being in the American. Being in the American and getting paid for all sports, essentially, on a net value, the same deal as being in the Big East made it a no-brainer to switch. Making $51 million a year in the big 12 alone makes it a no-brainer to switch there. The Big East was an excellent short term solution for us, but it was always intended to be a waystation not a destination.
Getting rid of the infamous "G5" moniker has a huge benefit in perception, independent of the huge difference in annual earnings. Though initially a football term, it now has become a de facto sub category of athletics. Becoming a P5 member helps the Connecticut brand across all sports.
So, tell me, where do you think Kansas is going? The big 10 has not expressed any interest in it, neither has the SEC. The ACC looks to be very vulnerable when its GOR expires, in the Pac 12 can't put together a media contract. One of the strengths of the big 12 is that after OU and Texas leave, there really isn't anyone else who is likely to move. That has value from a broadcast right perspective, because stability has value.
Right now, the big 12 seems to be Connecticut's only and best option.