The Big East has lost just about every classic Big East school over the past decade or so, and now it’s down a commissioner, according to CBS Sports’ Brett McMurphy. John Marinatto, who’s led the league since 2009 and was just its third commissioner, has reportedly stepped down from his post.
John Marinatto Resigns As Big East Commissioner, According To Report
Big East commissioner John Marinatto is reportedly stepping down from his job.Follow @SBNationCFB
BREAKING: John Marinatto has resigned as Big East commissioner, sources told @CBSSports
— Brett McMurphy (@McMurphyCBS) May 7, 2012
Marinatto has drawn frequent criticism for the losses the conference sustained in realignment and its shifting identity, which is no longer that of a northeastern basketball league and now more of a global football conglomerate. When Pitt and Syracuse left for the ACC, Marinatto only found out after the deal had all but been announced.
However, it’s not easy to say what more the Big East could have done in the past few years. The conference’s perpetually awkward split between basketball and football members made it difficult for anyone to succeed in the role. Credit Marinatto with keeping the Big East alive, at the very least, and for patching together a viable football conference by bringing in Boise State.
Before taking over as commish, Marinatto served as the Big East’s COO, where he was responsible for the daily administration of the conference office. He has served on various NCAA councils and as a BCS officer for several years.
For more on the Big East, visit SB Nation's Big East Coast Bias.
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