Big East Conference Returns to ESPN with New Streaming Deal

The Big East Conference and ESPN have announced a six-year digital media rights agreement, marking a reunion between the two entities that previously partnered from 1980 to 2013. This new deal will see ESPN+ streaming over 300 Big East events annually, including a minimum of 75 women's basketball games, 25 non-conference men's basketball games, and 200 Olympic sports events. The agreement aims to enhance visibility and fan access for all 22 Big East sports. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Big East Commissioner Val Ackerman emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, "This exciting relationship with ESPN reinforces our commitment to placing Big East teams front and center on the leading digital sports platform." She added that streaming on ESPN+ provides "all 22 of our sports—especially women's basketball and Olympic sports—the visibility they've earned and the access our fans expect."

Nick Dawson, ESPN's Senior Vice President of Programming and Acquisitions, expressed enthusiasm about the renewed collaboration: "We're pleased to welcome the Big East back to ESPN. This agreement returns one of the country's premier conferences and its tradition of excellence to ESPN platforms. We look forward to further building on this rich history."

This partnership follows ESPN's loss of Big Ten media rights to Fox and CBS in 2022, indicating ESPN's strategic move to bolster its college sports portfolio. The Big East had previously signed a six-year media rights agreement with Fox Sports, NBC Sports, and TNT Sports in June 2024, set to begin in the 2025–26 academic year. The new deal with ESPN+ complements these existing agreements by focusing on digital streaming.

The Big East Conference comprises 11 member institutions and is known for its strong basketball programs. The 2024–25 season saw the UConn women's basketball team secure its 12th national title, and the St. John's men's basketball team earned a No. 2 seed in a poignant run.

This renewed partnership with ESPN is expected to provide significant exposure for Big East sports, particularly women's basketball and Olympic sports, through ESPN's digital platforms.