ACC vs Clemson: A Legal Battle Over Media Rights and Membership Status

In response to Clemson’s lawsuit, the ACC filed a counter lawsuit. Clemson alleges that ACC’s media rights extension hinders its ability to negotiate alternative revenue-sharing proposals and explore conference membership options. The ACC asserts it owns Clemson’s home game broadcast rights until 2036, even if Clemson leaves the conference, and there’s a $140 million penalty for leaving. The ACC seeks a declaration that Clemson must pay the withdrawal fee and abide by the broadcast rights agreement until 2036, regardless of its membership status. Clemson declined to comment.