It’s official. ESPN and the ACC formally unveiled the launch of the ACC Network at the conference’s annual Football Kickoff media event in Charlotte. Backed by a 20-year partnership, the platform will run through at least 2036 and with the first part kicking off in Aug. with more than 600 exclusive live events from across the conference via a digital live-events channel ACC Network Extra for users who have access to ESPN3. Once the linear network begins, the channel will feature 450 exclusive live events including 40 regular-season football games, over 150 men’s and women’s basketball games, more than 200 other regular-season contests and tournament games from across the conference’s 27-sponsored sports, as well as news and original programming.

“We look forward to working with our longtime partners at the ACC to create a network that reflects the depth and quality of its athletes and teams, and serves the fans who passionately support them. We are proud and excited to add the ACC Network to our industry-leading college content offerings,” said John Skipper, ESPN President.

“On behalf of the ACC Council of Presidents, Faculty Athletics Representatives and our ACC Television Committee, we are tremendously pleased to further enhance our long-term partnership with ESPN that includes the creation of the ACC Network and ACC Network Extra, and positions the conference for the long-term future,” said ACC Commissioner John Swofford. “This partnership continues to be a win-win for ESPN and the ACC.”