Others may have more insights. details and dates but the GOR was supported and pushed for by almost all when it was agreed to. By all, I mean the ACC schools, the media, Notre Dame, ESPN and fans (including many/most TSL posters in the Conference Realignment community).

The GOR was a direct reaction to Maryland being picked off by the Big 10. In the months after Maryland left, there were serious (but quiet) discussions between the Big 10 with multiple schools (I specifically remember Georgia Tech and UVA being mentioned, I also think FSU, UNC and possibly others were mentioned. Although never confirmed, it was my understanding that UNC was also approached, but wanted to remain in a united ACC. On top of that, there were rumors that if the Big 10 were successful, Florida State and Clemson were reaching out to join the Big 12. Overall, VT was not included in the rumors.

In order to unify the league, there were a couple steps taken. First was getting Louisville instead of UConn - as I remember Clemson and FSU were key to there needing to be a football focus or they were not willing to stay. There was also a strong belief among all that the ACC Network was key to future revenue (SEC Network was already in place). ESPN was reluctant to commit to building the ACC Network as long as the ACC was viewed as unstable.

When announced the GOR was lauded by most and the Big 10 slithered away (& ACC schools all joined hands - similar to Texas A&Ms vote earlier today). The GOR stabilized the conference for the long term. In addition, Notre Dame tying itself to the ACC through the duration of the GOR was considered a Win. I do not know the exact timing of the ESPN contract versus the GOR except that the GOR signing at least had some ESPN guarantees of an ACC network.

Overall the GOR was and is successful in doing what it was intended to do - stabilize the ACC. Had it not been signed, the Big 10 would have likely picked off the AAU schools in the year or two after Maryland left. Had it been signed for a shorter period (say 2025), the ACC would likely be in the same boat that the Big 12/7 finds itself today.

Overall, there was lots of support for the GOR and the long term reach of it. Obviously the value of the ACC Network has not been the financial win that was expected, but the ACC remains stable to the point that schools are still committed (voluntarily or not) - at least until we find out if the Big 12 GOR goes to court.