ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips Meets With Tar Heel Roundtable for an Exclusive Interview
In an exclusive conversation with the Tar Heel Roundtable on Monday, ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips addressed a range of pressing topics shaping the future of college athletics, from conference realignment and student-athlete welfare to the evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations. The discussion offered rare insights into how the Atlantic Coast Conference is navigating one of the most transformative eras in collegiate sports history.
Phillips began by reaffirming his commitment to the ACC’s core values of academic excellence, competitive balance, and student-athlete development. “Our conference has always been about more than just championships,” he said. “It’s about preparing young people for life beyond the field or court while maintaining the highest standards of integrity.”
A key portion of the interview focused on the ACC’s recent expansion efforts and the ongoing national conversation surrounding realignment. While Phillips acknowledged the financial pressures facing all major conferences, he emphasized the importance of stability and tradition. “The ACC is not in a position to chase headlines,” he noted. “We’re focused on strengthening our current membership and ensuring our schools are positioned for long-term success.”
On the NIL front, Phillips advocated for more consistent federal legislation to provide clarity and fairness across the NCAA landscape. “Right now, we’re operating with 50 different sets of rules,” he said. “Student-athletes deserve a system that’s transparent, equitable, and sustainable.”
Phillips also spoke about the ACC’s commitment to mental health resources and academic support, underscoring the importance of treating student-athletes as “whole individuals, not just performers.” He highlighted ongoing initiatives such as enhanced counseling programs, mentorship opportunities, and leadership development.
When asked about the conference’s outlook for the coming years, Phillips expressed optimism. “The ACC remains one of the most storied and respected conferences in college sports,” he said. “Our goal is to continue innovating while staying true to what makes the ACC special — our people, our purpose, and our passion for excellence.”
The Roundtable concluded the interview with applause, reflecting both respect for Phillips’ leadership and anticipation for the conference’s future direction.
