SEC Commissioner Sankey Stands Firm on Conference Structure Amid Expansion Talks

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey faced a barrage of questions about potential conference expansion during the SEC media days, but he remained resolute in his stance to focus on the current 16-member setup. Three years ago, the SEC made headlines by adding Oklahoma and Texas from the Big 12, sparking realignment waves across college sports. Despite the ongoing shifts in other conferences, Sankey emphasized the SEC's stability and success at 16 teams. Sankey highlighted the historic rivalries restored by the SEC's expansion and downplayed speculations about further additions. When asked about Clemson and Florida State's legal battle to exit the ACC, Sankey acknowledged the situation but maintained that the SEC was not actively pursuing expansion through litigation. The commissioner expressed a preference for contiguous state additions, pointing to past decisions that brought Texas A&M, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas into the conference. Sankey's focus remains on the SEC's current footprint and the strength it provides. Addressing broader issues in college sports, Sankey touched on the need for federal legislation regarding NIL rights and other matters. He also drew attention to the divisive climate in the nation, emphasizing the unifying nature of college football and the diverse fan base it attracts. Sankey reiterated his commitment to keeping college athletics afloat and resisting external influences seeking to reshape the landscape. With the SEC's stable position as one of the wealthiest conferences, he emphasized the importance of maintaining authority within the conference realm. As the longest-tenured commissioner among power conferences, Sankey's leadership and steadfast approach to conference affairs reflect the SEC's standing in the collegiate athletics landscape. Despite ongoing changes in the college sports realm, he remains focused on ensuring the SEC's continued success and stability.