That’s not how it works at all. If we said we are leaving why would the MWC cut us a break in exit fees? The answer is they wouldn’t. The reason why is your example doesn’t apply. This isn’t free agency.
MWC schools have signed contracts with the conference. With 2 years notice they pay $17mm, with one year notice they pay $34mm. Plus distributions stop when they give notice.
There’s a reason why the ACC isn’t caving to FSU and Clemson even though they want to leave and cut a deal. The remaining schools that aren’t leaving want the full amount owed on the contract. The situation here is the same.
The exit fees are actually set where the fee is doubled with less than one year notice. The lower exit fee is based on a minimum one year notice. As the four MWC schools are leaving in 2026 they still pay the minimum exit fee.
The actual exit fee may vary annually based on the income revenue of the school. The revenue I speak of is the media rights, NCAA units, and even the $1 million we got from the Pac12 for the scheduling agreement. Therefor the minimum exit fee could be higher or lower. But I do believe saying $17 million is appropriate because that is probably where it's at right now.
I do love that they will get zero income over the next few years and I hope that is distributed to us to help pay our exit fee.
edit: As I think about it Boise's exit fee may be closer to $21 million as they receive a higher annual distribution of media rights. Hopefully, Gloria is on top of that.