Top College Sports Programs’ Valuation
Ohio State University Tops Valuable College Athletic Programs List
Ohio State University has been crowned the most valuable athletic program in college sports, with an estimated worth of $1.32 billion. The Buckeyes’ impressive revenue of $280 million in 2023 catapulted them to the top spot in CNBC’s rankings of the 75 most valuable college athletic programs. This article delves deep into the world of college sports valuations to provide an in-depth understanding of the factors influencing these staggering numbers.
SEC and Big Ten Dominate the Rankings
Unsurprisingly, the rankings are dominated by schools from the SEC and Big Ten conferences, thanks to their lucrative media rights deals. The SEC boasts a collective worth of $13.3 billion, with an average of $832 million per school, closely followed by the Big Ten at $13.2 billion and an average of $734 million per school. The ACC and Big 12 also make a significant mark on the list, showcasing the financial prowess of these powerhouse conferences.
Insights into Valuation Methodology
The valuations provided in the rankings are a result of meticulous analysis based on a variety of factors. Jason Belzer, the publisher of AthleticDirectorU, played a crucial role in compiling the data used in determining the worth of each college sports program. Revenue figures from authoritative sources like the Department of Education’s Equity in Athletics Data Analysis and the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics for the fiscal year 2023 formed the foundation of these valuations.
Factors Influencing Valuations
Several variables come into play when assessing the value of a college sports program. Conference affiliation, estimated name, image, and likeness (NIL) spend, school subsidies, number of alumni, and other growth catalysts all contribute to the final valuation. By leveraging a revenue multiple approach, the rankings aim to provide a comprehensive view of each program’s enterprise value, paving the way for future growth and profitability.
As you explore the rankings of the top 75 college sports programs, you’ll gain valuable insights into the financial landscape of collegiate athletics. From Ohio State University’s reign at the top to the intricate methodology behind the valuations, this article sheds light on the business side of college sports. Dive into the numbers, uncover the stories, and discover the driving forces shaping the world of college athletics.
