New Big East commissioner open to private equity but says no clear use case yet
Tim Brosnan, who took over as Big East commissioner in September after replacing Val Ackerman, said at Big East Media Day that he is focused on commerce and revenue opportunities for the conference. Speaking with Front Office Sports, Brosnan indicated he was open to a future private equity arrangement, acknowledging the conference has already been contacted by multiple firms, but said no compelling use case has emerged. He also emphasized that any such decision would ultimately rest with the conference's member institutions rather than with him as chief executive. The Big 12 remains the only conference to have completed a league-wide private equity deal, while the Big Ten, ACC, SEC, and American have explored options without finalizing anything.
Why it matters
For brands: Brands and sponsors may see new commercial partnership structures emerge if the Big East pursues outside investment.
For media: A capital infusion or equity deal could influence conference media strategies and rights negotiations.
For athletes: Conference-level financial decisions can affect program funding, facilities, and resources available to college athletes.
For collectives: Private equity involvement in conferences could reshape how revenue flows to schools and, by extension, to collectives supporting athletes.
Read the full story at Front Office Sports
Sources
- Front Office Sports · Amanda Christovich: Where Does New Big East Commissioner Stand on PE?