The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has taken significant steps to enhance its men’s basketball programs by implementing success incentives and introducing an 18-game conference schedule, starting with the upcoming season. These changes aim to recognize and reward schools that invest in their basketball programs and achieve notable success, with viewership incentives set to begin in the 2025-26 season.
ACC commissioner Jim Phillips emphasized the league’s commitment to strengthening men’s basketball, stating, “Moving to an 18-game conference schedule is a direct result of our ongoing strategic review and analysis.” The new schedule allows teams to kick off league play in late December and wrap up by the first Saturday in March, providing a balanced mix of conference and nonconference games. Teams will have specific primary partners for home-and-away matches, while variable partners will be adjusted annually. For instance, Georgia Tech has Clemson as its primary partner.
Following the regular season, the highly anticipated ACC men’s basketball tournament will take place from March 10-14 at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. This proactive approach signals a bright future for ACC men’s basketball, demonstrating the league’s dedication to competitiveness and fan engagement.
With these strategic adjustments, the ACC is setting the stage for an exciting season ahead, fostering a culture of success and collaboration among its member schools. Fans can look forward to a thrilling season packed with competitive matchups and the growth of the conference’s basketball legacy.