May 4, 2011

"This is a great day for the Pac-12 Conference and all of its members. The new media rights deal, negotiated by Commissioner Larry Scott and his team, puts the Pac-12 at the forefront of intercollegiate athletics in both exposure and finances.

"Commissioner Scott's creativity and vision to partner with both ESPN and FOX Sports Media Group - the two foremost players in the world of college sports - has resulted in an innovative agreement that will bring not only conference football and basketball, but Olympic sports as well, to a national television broadcast and cable audience. The creation of a Pac-12 Network will further extend coverage for the league in all sports.

"This joint venture will also generate income that far exceeds the Pac-10's previous media agreements. The revenue generated will assist all of us in our goal to sustain world-class athletic programs, both on and off the fields of play. However, it is important to remember that in this era of rising expenses, such as student-athlete tuition and housing, we cannot reach those goals without the continued support of our loyal fans, donors, and corporate sponsors who take pride in contributing to the success of our student-athletes and their teams.

"As we move towards the July 2012 start date, we look forward to working with Commissioner Scott and the league office on the implementation of this new agreement as well as the development of a Pac-12 Network. We will continue to keep our fan base updated as developments occur."