DirecTV is the latest distributor that has decided to carry ACC Network at its Aug. 22 launch. This is a crucial deal for ESPN as it tries to convince the distribution community to carry the fledgling channel. ACC Net previously signed launch deals with Altice, Verizon and Hulu TV. ESPN will depend on the Hulu and DirecTV’s national footprints as they negotiate with other distributors, including Comcast, Charter, Dish Network and AT&T U-Verse. ESPN is launching an advertising campaign around the ACC Net today, to coincide with the start of the ’19 New York Life ACC Tournament. The campaign is called “We Do This,” and shows an inside look at each of the conference’s schools and their traditions. The spots will run across ESPN platforms and on local channels in ACC markets. ACC schools will be able to customize the spots, which can run via digital or in-venue (John Ourand, THE DAILY).
POSITIVE SIGNS: ACC Commissioner John Swofford believes the conference is "ahead of schedule" in ensuring that the ACC Net will be "available on cable, satellite and streaming services when it's launched." He said, "The early distribution negotiation and deals have gone very, very well and that's extremely encouraging. We're to the point now where we're having more and more serious conversations about things like programming and talent and content and scheduling, and that's fun." In Greensboro, Brant Wilkerson-New noted the ACC Net will have "almost every major metropolitan area on the East Coast covered, drawing in massive subscription fees from folks who might never tune in." Football and men's basketball will "certainly drive" the net, but the "bigger benefits will be felt in sports that have typically been relegated to digital platforms and far-flung regional cable networks" (Greensboro NEWS & RECORD, 3/11). Swofford said there will be "less syndication on over-the-air channels and a lot more on the ACC Network and its own channel." He added, "As far as comparing it to the SEC Network, the fundamental business plan is the same, but it will have its own distinctive look" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 3/12).
