Breaking Down the Pac-12, CBS Media Deal: Impact on Sports Television
A recent agreement between the Pac-12 Conference and CBS has sparked significant interest in the world of sports television. This deal not only includes the broadcasting of key sporting events but also has far-reaching implications for various NCAA Division I conferences and television networks.
The partnership, set to run through the 2030-31 season, will see the Pac-12 Championship Game in football and the Pac-12 Tournament title game in men’s basketball aired live each season on CBS and Paramount+. This move aims to boost the visibility of Pac-12 basketball as much as Pac-12 football, emphasizing the importance of television exposure in enhancing the conference’s sports divisions.
Impact on NCAA Conferences and Television Networks
The failure to secure a media deal in 2023 posed a significant threat to the Pac-12 Conference, with several teams considering departures to other major NCAA conferences like the Big 12, Atlantic Coast, and Big Ten. However, with the recent agreement in place, the conference looks set to solidify its presence in the sports entertainment industry.
As part of the deal, CBS will serve as the anchor partner for a five-year contract starting in 2026. This partnership will see the network broadcast a minimum of four football and men’s basketball games per season, further expanding the reach of Pac-12 sports through CBS’s extensive television stations.
Future Prospects and Partnerships
With the current media rights agreement being just a portion of the overall plan, the Pac-12 Conference is expected to secure additional media partners in the near future. This move will not only enhance the exposure of Pac-12 sports but also contribute to the broader landscape of sports broadcasting in the United States.
Overall, the extended partnership between the Pac-12 Conference and CBS Sports marks a groundbreaking development in sports television. With CBS becoming the primary long-term media partner for the conference, fans can look forward to a new era of high-quality sports entertainment across various television networks.
