ESPN exercises option extending media rights agreement with the ACC through 2035-36

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) โ€” ESPN has exercised its option extending its media rights agreement with the Atlantic Coast Conference through the 2035-36 academic year.

The network and the ACCย announced the extensionย Thursday. The deal continues a rights deal that has spanned 35 years and the launch of the ACC Network in August 2019 in a joint effort.

Commissioner Jim Phillips said this solidifies the ACC as a premier league showcasing a long-standing relationship with ESPN.

โ€œThe resolve from both parties to further enhance the partnership through innovation and creativity to continue to drive additional value remains our top priority,โ€ Phillips said.

ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro said they are thrilled to continue this partnership for the next decade.

โ€œThe ACC is a pillar of ESPNโ€™s leading commitment to college sports and we are thrilled to continue the partnership over the next decade,โ€ Pitaro said.