Big 12 Extends Commissioner Brett Yormark’s Contract: A Deep Dive into His Impact and Future
In a move that underscores the confidence and satisfaction of the Big 12’s board of directors, commissioner Brett Yormark has been granted a three-year contract extension, sources have informed ESPN. This extension will see Yormark at the helm of the conference through 2030, a significant vote of confidence considering he initially signed a five-year deal in 2022 that was set to run through 2027.
So, what has Yormark done to earn such a robust endorsement from the Big 12 presidents? Well, let’s dive into the details. Yormark has been instrumental in stabilizing and modernizing the Big 12, especially in the wake of the seismic announcement in 2021 that Oklahoma and Texas would be departing the conference. This was a pivotal moment for the Big 12, and Yormark’s leadership has been crucial in navigating these choppy waters.
Yormark stepped into the role in 2022, succeeding Bob Bowlsby, and quickly made his mark with two major initiatives: a new television deal and a four-school expansion. His early declaration that the Big 12 was “open for business” has been more than just a catchy slogan; it has been a guiding principle for his tenure, characterized by a relentless pursuit of strategic deals.
Under Yormark’s leadership, the Big 12 has seen a significant upgrade in the experience and atmosphere of both its football and basketball championships. These events have been elevated to new heights, drawing more attention and engagement. Additionally, Yormark introduced a conference-wide football pro day, a first in college sports, further enhancing the Big 12’s profile.
Perhaps Yormark’s most significant achievement as commissioner has been the aggressive pursuit and successful negotiation of a new television deal. Early in his tenure, during the summer of 2022, he prioritized and achieved early negotiations with Fox and ESPN, more than a year before the exclusive negotiating window. This proactive approach paid off when the Big 12 secured a six-year, $2.28 billion deal.
This strategic move positioned the Big 12 ahead of the Pac-12, which struggled to secure a television deal of similar magnitude. The Pac-12’s inability to land a substantial deal led to the Big 12 successfully luring Colorado, Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah as new members, a charge led by Yormark in July and August of 2023.
In addition to these four schools, Yormark has overseen the transition of four other members who had agreed to join before his arrival: UCF, BYU, Cincinnati, and Houston. This expansion has been a testament to Yormark’s vision and ability to execute complex deals.
Yormark has also been proactive in exploring further expansion opportunities, although the league has been less receptive to the idea of adding Connecticut in all sports and Gonzaga in basketball. Talks with Gonzaga eventually faded, leading the school to join the refurbished Pac-12, while discussions with UConn stalled in September.
Before his tenure with the Big 12, Yormark was relatively unknown in the college sports arena. He came from Roc Nation, an agency known for its influence in the entertainment and sports industries. Prior to that, he served as the president and CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment (BSE) Global, which manages the Barclays Center and the Brooklyn Nets. He also has experience working with NASCAR.
- Yormark’s Key Achievements:
- Secured a six-year, $2.28 billion television deal with Fox and ESPN.
- Led the expansion to include Colorado, Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah.
- Introduced a conference-wide football pro day.
- Enhanced the Big 12 football and basketball championships.
In conclusion, Brett Yormark’s extension as Big 12 commissioner is a testament to his impactful leadership and strategic vision. His ability to navigate challenges and seize opportunities has not only stabilized the conference but also positioned it for future success. As the Big 12 looks ahead, Yormark’s continued leadership promises to bring more innovation and growth to the conference.
Originally Written by: Pete Thamel
