In a highly anticipated press conference at SEC media days, conference commissioner Greg Sankey addressed the lingering questions surrounding the recent expansion of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and offered insights into the future direction of the conference.

Sankey began by acknowledging the unexpected addition of Oklahoma and Texas to the SEC three years ago, which kickstarted a realignment wave across college sports. However, he made it clear that his current focus lies on the existing 16 members of the conference and dismissed speculation about further expansion. Sankey emphasized that the SEC's success does not hinge on adding more teams and that they can remain strong with their current lineup.

During the press conference, questions were raised about the ongoing legal battle between Clemson and Florida State, who are suing the ACC to terminate their grant of rights agreements. While expressing sympathy towards ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips, Sankey indicated that the SEC is not entangled in litigation and emphasized that decisions regarding conference expansion rest with the SEC presidents.

In response to queries about potential expansion beyond the SEC's current footprint, Sankey pointed to the conference's recent history of adding contiguous states such as Texas A&M and Missouri. He described these decisions as prudent and fueled the SEC's remarkable strength. However, Sankey refrained from speculating on future expansion plans.

Sankey also used the opportunity to address broader issues in college sports, including proposed settlements in legal cases, federal legislation regarding name, image, and likeness (NIL), and divisive national events. He underlined the positive role that college football plays in the nation and expressed the need for unity and continued development in the sport.

As the longest-serving commissioner among power conferences, Sankey's position as one of the most influential figures in college athletics was evident. He highlighted the SEC's stability and wealth, alongside the Big Ten, in contrast to the uncertainties faced by other conferences like the ACC and the revenue-seeking efforts of the Big 12.

While acknowledging the interest of external actors in college athletics, Sankey reiterated his commitment to involving stakeholders within the campus and conference realm. He emphasized that the responsibility to shape the future of college sports lies with the existing authorities within the SEC rather than ceding control to external entities.

In conclusion, Commissioner Greg Sankey set the tone for SEC media days by addressing the expansion, future direction, and challenges facing college sports. With a focus on the existing 16 member schools, Sankey conveyed the SEC's commitment to maintaining its strength and success while navigating a rapidly changing landscape.