ESPN: Longhorn Network Is Not Cause Of Realignment Uncertainty

ESPN says the creation of the Longhorn Network had nothing to do with the upheaval occurring in college sports right now. Many critics have pointed to the existence of LHN as the reason, for example, that Texas A&M decided to leave the Big 12 and join the SEC.

"The driving force on realignment lies with the conferences and universities," reads an ESPN statement. "The Big 12 determined in 2010 to grant each of its schools the ability to create their own networks. As a result, the Big 12 stayed together and University of Texas made the decision to launch its network. ESPN subsequently won a competitive bid to become its media partner. We have since seen Kansas State and Missouri create opportunities  while Oklahoma is exploring its media options. The concept of LHN remains the same as it was 15 months ago."