Chris Del Conte explains folding of Longhorn Network, transition to SEC Network

Some things come full circle and the Longhorn Network is the latest example. The ESPN channel a few original members of the Big 12 broke the conference a part will be folded when Texas transitions to the SEC. With an early move-in date of the 2024 football season, just over a year remains for LHN.

Athletic director Chris Del Conte discussed the network shutting down during a Virtual Town Hall Meeting on Monday. He explained why a ton of “inventory” will be remaining in Austin, the channel will no longer be available in the near future. Instead, the SEC Network will become the home of Texas programming.

“The Longhorn Network will be folded into the SEC Network,” Del Conte said. “We have a year or two left with the Longhorn Network. Then, all that inventory stays with us.”

Longhorn Network launched in August 2011, being a one-of-a-kind channel exclusively for Texas athletics. Countless events would be broadcasted on the channel, ranging from football games to Olympic sports.

Replays of famous wins would air as well. If you ever needed an outlet to watch the 2005 BCS National Championship game against USC, Longhorn Network had your back. Unfortunately, Longhorn fans will not have the luxury by 2024.

Texas games, content moving to SEC Network

Have no fear, Texas fans. There will still be a place to consume coverage on a daily basis with the SEC Network. Some adapting will have to be made by hearing about 15 other programs as well. Games, pre/postgame shows, and original programming has proved to create the best network dedicated to one conference.

There is a plan for the Olympic sports as well, similar to Big 12 Now on ESPN+. The name will just slightly change and have the SEC brand attached.

“When we go into the SEC Network, not only will we be able to produce our own content, as many as we can produce, but they will be put on ESPN+ or on the SEC Network,” Del Conte said. “So, all of our games that we’ve been accustomed to will be on those platforms moving forward.”

During football season, SEC Network broadcasts multiple games on Saturday. One is always in the primetime window, getting the network’s top announcing crew. Basketball season is similar, usually having doubleheaders on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Changes are coming for Texas fans but according to Del Conte, Longhorn Network will still have some kind of influence.