The Mouse House Rebuilds: Bob Iger’s Bold Bet on Disney’s Future In a surprise move that’s got the entertainment world buzzing, Disney’s Chairman Bob Iger has dismissed the notion that the company’s linear TV assets are a liability. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Iger shot down the idea that the traditional broadcast and cable channels owned by Disney are a “burden” weighing down the company’s growth. This statement comes as a shock to many who have long speculated that Disney would offload its linear TV assets to focus on its lucrative streaming services, such as Disney+. But Iger’s confidence in Disney’s diversified media empire suggests a more nuanced strategy is at play. As we dive into the details of Iger’s comments, one thing becomes clear: the future of Disney is more complex – and exciting – than ever.
Conference Realignment and Alumni Destination: A Big Ten Perspective

When it comes to conference realignment, one crucial aspect to consider is the destination of alumni. At Morningpicker, we have been analyzing this trend, and our findings have shed light on the importance of alumni destinations in conference realignment decisions.
Historically, data on alumni destinations has been scarce, making it challenging to understand the impact of conference realignment on college sports business. However, with the recent release of a comprehensive database by the Wall Street Journal, we now have access to quantitative data on where graduates from 445 colleges live.

Understanding the Gap in Alumni Destination Data
The Need for Quantitative Data
The lack of reliable data on alumni destinations has hindered our understanding of conference realignment and its impact on college sports business. Morningpicker has been at the forefront of analyzing conference realignment, and we recognize the significance of quantitative data in informing conference realignment decisions.

The Wall Street Journal’s Solution
The Wall Street Journal’s database provides a comprehensive picture of where college graduates from 445 colleges live, breaking down the most popular locations for each school. This data is a treasure trove for anyone interested in conference realignment and the college sports business.
Implications for Conference Realignment
This data can help inform conference realignment decisions, as it provides a clearer understanding of where graduates are likely to settle and the potential economic impact on the involved institutions. By analyzing the destinations of alumni, conferences can make more informed decisions about expansion and alignment.
The Big Ten’s Top Metro Areas for Alumni Destination
Four Cities Stand Out
Our analysis of the Wall Street Journal’s database reveals that New York, Los Angeles, Washington, and San Francisco are the top destinations for Big Ten graduates, with none located in the Midwest. These cities have strong industries that attract a national talent pool, including finance, entertainment, tech, and government.
Industry Strengths
The Big Ten’s presence in these markets is noteworthy, as these cities have strengths in industries that attract a national talent pool. For example, finance in New York, entertainment in Los Angeles, tech in San Francisco, and government and politics in Washington.
Implications for Conference Realignment
The Big Ten’s dominance in these markets highlights the potential for conference realignment to have a significant impact on the college sports business. By understanding where alumni are likely to settle, conferences can make more informed decisions about expansion and alignment.
Comparing the Big Ten to the Ivy League
Similarities and Differences
Our analysis also reveals that both the Big Ten and Ivy League have their members in the top four markets, but the Ivy League’s presence is more widespread and diverse. While the Big Ten has a strong presence in New York, Los Angeles, Washington, and San Francisco, the Ivy League has a broader reach across the country.
Implications for Conference Realignment
This comparison highlights the potential for conference realignment to create a more competitive and dynamic college sports business landscape. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different conferences, institutions can make more informed decisions about alignment and expansion.
Practical Aspects of Conference Realignment
Economic Impact
Conference realignment can have a significant impact on the economic prospects of involved institutions, including alumni graduates. By understanding the destinations of alumni, conferences can make more informed decisions about expansion and alignment, which can have a direct impact on the economic well-being of institutions.
Recruiting and Retention
The ability to control the flow of talented athletes and graduates can be a major advantage for institutions involved in conference realignment. By understanding where alumni are likely to settle, conferences can make more informed decisions about recruitment and retention strategies.
Implications for Future Conference Realignment
Understanding the economic and practical implications of conference realignment can help inform future decisions. By analyzing the destinations of alumni, conferences can make more informed decisions about expansion and alignment, which can have a direct impact on the college sports business.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bob Iger’s bold statement that Disney’s linear TV assets are “not a burden” marks a significant shift in the media giant’s approach to its traditional television business. As the article highlights, Disney’s evolving strategy is rooted in its commitment to streaming, with Iger emphasizing the importance of flexibility and adaptability in an increasingly fragmented media landscape. The company’s willingness to divest or restructure its underperforming linear assets, such as ABC, signals a bold recognition of the need to prioritize growth and innovation over legacy assets.
The implications of this pivot are far-reaching, with potential consequences for the entire media industry. As Disney charts a course towards a streaming-centric future, competitors will be forced to reevaluate their own approaches to traditional television. The shift towards streaming has already disrupted the way we consume media, and Iger’s statement serves as a clarion call for companies to adapt or risk being left behind. Moreover, the fate of Disney’s linear assets will have significant implications for the thousands of employees and stakeholders tied to these businesses, underscoring the human impact of this seismic shift.