4-1-Zoo: It's official, Pitt to the ACC
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The FAN) — As of now, both schools will operate on the Big East's 27-month withdrawl period, although many seem to think that could get bypassed. What's fairly certain is that both will remain in the Big East through the next school year and both will pay a $5 million exit fee.
"In the coming weeks we will have some discussions with the Big East to see if the 27-month waiting period serves in everyone's best interests," Pitt chancellor Mark Nordenberg said.
Nordenberg said this puts Pitt in the best situation possible moving forward.
"The ACC is a perfect home," he said, adding, "This is a great day for the University of Pittsburgh."
Nordenberg went on to say that the geography of the ACC "is very important to us."
ACC commissioner John Swofford said the additions of Pitt and Syracuse strengthen the league and give the conference staying power as it now covers virtually the entire eastern seaboard. That geographical reach could continue to improve, as many reports state the ACC is interested in Rutgers and UConn as well.
Swofford said the entire process developed quickly — a span of four days.
Moving forward there are a ton of questions that need to be answered. Here are just a few that come to mind:
1) How will the conference be re-aligned?
2) Will the ACC continue to add conference members?
3) What happens to the rest of the Big East?
4) Exactly how long will Pitt and Syracuse have to wait to leave?
5) What will happen to traditions like the Backyard Brawl and basketball at Madison Square Garden?
As time lines become more concrete we'll get an idea on answers to these questions and others.
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Chris Gates | Area 4-1-Zoo Blog
Twitter.com/Chris_Gates
Chris.Gates@cbsradio.com
