Sun Belt Conference announces realignment plans following JMU's exit to the American
The Sun Belt Conference confirmed it will realign after James Madison University revealed plans to leave for the American Athletic Conference, a move scheduled for 2028. The departure will reduce the Sun Belt's membership from 14 to 13 football-playing schools. According to Sports Illustrated, officials at JMU and Appalachian State have separately signaled to boosters that the conference's current television deal leaves its members underpaid relative to other leagues. Sun Belt Commissioner Keith Gill and Board of Directors President Dr. Kyle Marrero both issued statements pledging to maintain the conference's competitive standing and regional identity as leadership evaluates its options.
administrators at JMU and Appalachian State have privately told boosters that the league is undercompensated under the current TV agreement.
Why it matters
For brands: Sponsors and advertisers tied to Sun Belt programs should monitor how realignment affects the conference's media footprint and audience reach.
For coaches: Coaching staffs at Sun Belt programs could face recruiting and budget shifts as the conference navigates a reduced membership and seeks a more favorable media deal.
For media: A restructured Sun Belt with a new or renegotiated TV deal could alter broadcast schedules and distribution arrangements for rights holders covering the conference.
For athletes: College athletes at Sun Belt schools may see changes to program resources and competitive opportunities depending on how realignment reshapes the conference's revenue.
Read the full story at Yahoo Sports
Sources
- Yahoo Sports: The Sun Belt conference is realigning. Here's why
- Sporting News · Justin Favors: The Sun Belt conference is realigning. Here's why