Big East hires new commish - smart as a whip

The Big East will hire Mike Aresco from CBS Sports as their new commissioner later today.  To say I'm thrilled is an understatement.  I have worked with Mike and his team for a number of years on various sports programming exclusive packages like Mega March Madness.  He is extremely knowledgeable, smart as hell and provides the Big East with what it needs most.....a powerful television rights person that has gravitas in the industry.  He is also one of those guys in this industry that is just a great guy, honorable to work with. 

The current Big East TV contract is part of what led to the exodus of some schools and the general instability of the league the last few years. Aresco has his work cut out for him, but at the same time the networks are in need of content and the Big East can fill a void there.The Big East has a 60 day exclusive negotiating contract with ESPN that starts on September 1st, so the timing of his hire is critical.

What this means for Marquette and long term stability is anyone's guess.  Without football, we are certainly not in the driver's seat but it is encouraging to know someone of Mike's quality is heading the league over the next few years.  The challenges are many, but you will not find a smarter guy to deal with those challenges.  If a solution exists, he will find it.


Big East to hire Aresco as Commissioner

Aresco bio