The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has long been a cornerstone of college basketball, celebrated for its rich history, intense rivalries, and a commitment to preserving the traditions that have defined the sport. However, the 2024–25 men’s basketball schedule marks a significant departure from this legacy. The introduction of an 18-game conference schedule, necessitated by the addition of California, SMU, and Stanford, has disrupted long-standing rivalries and altered the competitive landscape in ways that many believe undermine the essence of ACC basketbal
One of the most glaring consequences of the new scheduling format is the cessation of traditional home-and-home series. Notably, the North Carolina vs. NC State matchup, a fixture since 1919, will not occur in the upcoming season. This marks the first time in over a century that these two programs will not face each other twice in a season, signaling a profound shift in the conference’s approach to scheduling
Similarly, Syracuse’s annual game against Georgetown, a rivalry that has spanned a decade, is also absent from the 2025–26 schedule. The 100th all-time meeting between these teams took place in the previous season, and now, due to the new scheduling constraints, this historic series is on hiatus. Such decisions have left fans and alumni questioning the conference’s commitment to preserving its storied traditions
The revised schedule introduces an imbalance that affects the competitive integrity of the conference. Each team now plays 18 conference games, facing some opponents twice and others only once. This uneven distribution means that certain teams may have more challenging schedules than others, potentially influencing standings and postseason opportunities
For instance, Florida State’s schedule includes home-and-home series with Miami and SMU but omits games against Louisville. Such inconsistencies can lead to perceptions of unfairness and may impact a team’s performance and seeding in the ACC Tournament
Critics argue that the ACC’s decision to prioritize logistical convenience over tradition compromises the conference’s identity. The move to an 18-game schedule, while accommodating new members, has come at the expense of the rivalries and matchups that have defined ACC basketball for decades. By reducing the number of games against traditional opponents, the conference risks alienating its fan base and diminishing the sport’s cultural significance
In response to these concerns, some have suggested alternative scheduling models to restore balance and preserve tradition. One proposal is to establish divisions within the conference, allowing for more consistent rivalries and a more equitable distribution of games. Others have recommended scheduling key matchups as non-conference games, ensuring that traditional rivalries continue without disrupting the conference schedule
Additionally, the idea of a “Big Four” tournament, featuring Duke, UNC, NC State, and Wake Forest, has been proposed to maintain these historic rivalries in a neutral setting. Such initiatives could help bridge the gap between tradition and the demands of a modern, expanded conference.
The ACC’s new men’s basketball schedule represents a significant departure from the conference’s storied past. While the expansion to 18 teams introduces new opportunities, it also challenges the traditions that have long been the hallmark of ACC basketball. As the conference navigates this new landscape, it must find a balance between embracing change and honoring the rich history that has made it a leader in college basketball. The decisions made in the coming seasons will shape the future of ACC basketball and determine whether the conference can maintain its legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of the sport.
