ACC commish optimistic despite 'disruptive' FSU, Clemson lawsuits - ESPN

AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. — ACC commissioner Jim Phillips said Wednesday the pending litigation with Florida State and Clemson is «disruptive» and «harmful» but it has not changed the dynamic between them as the league wrapped up three days of meetings.

Phillips and league representatives, including athletic directors, football coaches and men's and women's basketball coaches met to discuss a big list of topics — including a possible settlement in the House vs. NCAA case, CFP expansion, revenue distribution and changing the perception around the league.

But with Florida State, Clemson and the ACC engaged in lawsuits against each other over the league's withdrawal penalty and grant of rights, uncertainty continues to hang around the league as it charts a new course with three new members joining in the fall. Cal, Stanford and SMU also participated in the league meetings.

Phillips acknowledged what remains ongoing with Clemson and Florida State, saying, «It's difficult, it's disruptive, it's harmful but that's the world we live in. It hasn't changed one iota about how we've interacted with them and it shouldn't.»

It should be noted Clemson and Florida State were full participants in the meetings over the past three days. Florida State athletic director Michael Alford said Tuesday the meetings were «cordial.» When asked if their future in the league could be salvaged, Alford said, «We'll just wait for that to play out.»

Asked the same question Wednesday about salvaging a future with Florida State and Clemson in the league, Phillips said, «You have to stay optimistic, and you work through these things. I don't know where it's going to go. But I will continue to remain optimistic about our league… and I won't ever change until