Val Ackerman Retires as Big East Commissioner After Transformative Tenure
Big East commissioner Val Ackerman retiring after years reviving league
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Val Ackerman, the commissioner of the Big East Conference, is retiring after 13 years of revitalizing the league. Under her leadership, the conference returned to prominence in college athletics, highlighted by successful teams and new media agreements. Her departure is effective August 31, and a search for her successor will begin immediately.
- 01Val Ackerman served as Big East commissioner for 13 years, revitalizing the league.
- 02She played a crucial role in bringing UConn back to the Big East in 2020.
- 03Ackerman's leadership helped secure new media rights agreements through the 2030-31 season.
- 04She has a notable history in basketball, including being the first president of the WNBA.
- 05Ackerman emphasized her desire to inspire women in sports and hopes to leave a lasting legacy.
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Val Ackerman, a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, is retiring as commissioner of the Big East Conference after 13 years. She played a pivotal role in reviving the league, which faced challenges after splitting from its football-playing schools. Under her leadership, the conference secured a new media rights agreement with FOX, NBC Sports, and TNT Sports through the 2030-31 season. Ackerman's tenure included the successful return of UConn to the Big East in 2020 and notable championship wins by Villanova and UConn. Reflecting on her career, she expressed hope that her work has inspired women in sports, stating, 'I hope I showed what women can do.' Ackerman plans to enjoy retirement by traveling, volunteering, and spending time with her family and pets, while leaving a legacy of empowerment in women's sports.
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Ackerman's departure marks a significant change for the Big East, which has seen a resurgence in competitiveness and visibility under her leadership.
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