NIL
Athletes and Digital Entertainment
In today’s fast-paced digital world, athletes are stepping beyond the confines of their sports arenas to explore new avenues for income. With the rise of social media and streaming platforms, sports stars are leveraging their popularity to build brands that resonate with fans and create diverse revenue streams.
From launching YouTube channels to engaging in eSports, athletes are not just competing on the field; they’re also dominating the digital landscape. This shift not only enhances their financial stability but also allows them to connect with audiences in innovative ways. As they embrace these opportunities, the landscape of sports and entertainment continues to evolve, paving the way for a new era of athlete entrepreneurship.
Overview of Athletes and Digital Entertainment
Athletes increasingly leverage digital platforms to expand their income sources beyond conventional sports models. Social media channels play a crucial role in this shift, providing athletes with opportunities to engage directly with millions of followers. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok allow them to showcase their personalities, share behind-the-scenes content, and promote personal brands. This level of engagement not only deepens fan relationships but also attracts lucrative sponsorship deals with brands eager to tap into these vast audiences.
Some athletes are even exploring digital gaming and casino platforms as part of their brand diversification. For example, appearances and collaborations with sites like 500 casino represent a new frontier in how athletes blend entertainment with audience engagement. These partnerships highlight how sports figures are expanding into high-traffic digital spaces that offer both entertainment value and monetary potential.
Streaming services further diversify income options. Many athletes have adopted platforms such as Twitch and YouTube to broadcast gaming sessions or share training routines. These outlets give fans closer access to their favorite stars and open pathways for advertising revenues and subscriber income. Moreover, gamers-turned-athletes participate in eSports, generating substantial earnings from sponsorships and tournament winnings.
In addition to direct engagement with fans, collaborations with influencers and content creators enhance visibility. By partnering with prominent figures in the digital space, athletes expand their reach and introduce their brands to diverse demographics. This interconnectedness fuels strategic partnerships that benefit both parties and amplify their collective market presence.
Athletic organizations also recognize these emerging opportunities, often encouraging athletes to explore digital ventures. By providing resources and support for personal branding, these organizations empower athletes to cultivate independent revenue streams. The result is a dynamic environment where sports stars thrive not just in arenas but also in the digital world, reflecting a modern approach to entrepreneurship and financial stability.
The Rise of Digital Platforms
Athletes are increasingly tapping into digital platforms to expand their income sources. This trend reflects a significant shift in how sports professionals engage with their audiences and capitalize on their personal brands.
Social Media Influence
Social media platforms play a crucial role in how athletes connect with fans. Channels like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok enable them to share personal stories, training regimens, and behind-the-scenes content. Content on these platforms garners millions of views, attracting sponsorship deals that can surpass traditional endorsements. Successful athletes often collaborate with brands to create authentic promotions, making their digital presence valuable for marketing campaigns. As a result, engagement rates significantly increase, translating into lucrative income opportunities. This dynamic relationship between athletes and social media has reshaped marketing strategies within the sports industry, showcasing the importance of personal branding in the digital age, as highlighted by Black Sports Online Boxing & MMA News.
Streaming Services and Gaming
Streaming services have emerged as vital revenue sources for athletes. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube allow them to broadcast gaming sessions, workout routines, and interactive Q&A sessions. These broadcasts not only engage fans but also generate income through subscriptions and ad revenue. Popular athletes develop unique content that showcases their personalities, appealing to various audiences. Additionally, by participating in gaming tournaments and partnering with game developers, they diversify their portfolios further. This evolution into the digital entertainment space provides significant financial benefits and reinforces the athlete’s connection with their audience, illustrating the potential of integrating sports with digital gaming culture.
Revenue Streams for Athletes
Athletes are diversifying their income through various channels, capitalizing on digital engagement and personal branding. These streams contribute significantly to their financial prospects and overall market presence.
Sponsorship and Brand Deals
Sponsorship remains a primary revenue source for many athletes. They partner with companies to promote products and services, often earning substantial sums for social media posts, appearances, or endorsements. Major brands seek to leverage an athlete’s influence, especially when their values align. Such partnerships can involve long-term contracts, leading to ongoing financial gains. According to the Sports Sponsorship Report, athletes can earn between $1 million and $10 million annually from endorsements, depending on fame and marketability. Effective collaborations enhance both brand visibility and athlete income, establishing them as prominent figures beyond their respective sports.
Content Creation and Merchandising
Content creation has emerged as a lucrative avenue for athletes. Many produce videos on platforms like YouTube, offering fans insights into training regimens, personal lives, and gameplay analysis. This content often draws millions of views, translating into advertising revenue. Furthermore, merchandising complements this effort; athletes frequently launch their own product lines, including clothing, shoes, and equipment. These ventures allow athletes to generate additional income while cultivating a loyal fan base. According to industry data, successful merchandise launches can yield millions in revenue, enhancing an athlete’s financial portfolio and strengthening their connection with fans.
Case Studies of Successful Athletes
Numerous sports figures have effectively diversified their income through innovative digital ventures. They leverage their influence and reach on various platforms, illustrating the potential of modern athlete entrepreneurship.
High-Profile Examples
One notable example is a former basketball player who expanded his brand through a successful YouTube channel focused on lifestyle content, attracting millions of subscribers. His channels generate significant advertising revenue and partnerships with various brands, creating a strong financial impact. A soccer legend has also made waves by launching an interactive gaming app, capitalizing on the growing interest in mobile gaming and sports. This venture not only connects with fans but also generates substantial in-app purchase revenue. An established tennis star utilized her status to promote fitness-related products on social media, leading to lucrative endorsement deals and a well-regarded fitness platform. Such endeavors highlight how athletes are harnessing digital tools to build versatile income streams.
Lessons Learned from Their Strategies
Successful athletes share key approaches that contribute to their financial growth. They prioritize personal branding and authenticity, ensuring that content resonates with their audience. Engaging storytelling and consistent interaction with fans create loyalty and boost visibility. Additionally, these athletes are strategic in selecting endorsements, aligning with brands that reflect their values and interests. They also invest in multiple platforms, maintaining a presence on social media, streaming services, and content creation avenues to reach diverse audiences. Observing these strategies offers valuable insights into thriving in the evolving landscape of modern sports and entertainment.
Future Trends in Athlete Involvement
Athletes are increasingly reshaping their relationships with fans through innovative engagement strategies. Personalized interactions via social media platforms allow athletes to connect on a more meaningful level. Fans receive real-time updates through live Q&A sessions and interactive polls, deepening their loyalty and involvement. This shift towards community-building enhances emotional connections, making fans feel invested in athletes’ journeys. Additionally, fan-driven initiatives like virtual meet-and-greets and exclusive online content further solidify these bonds. The growing importance of authenticity is evident, as audiences gravitate toward athletes who share genuine experiences and perspectives, thus changing how marketing strategies are developed.
Emerging technologies play a significant role in transforming how athletes generate income and interact with fans. Virtual and augmented realities provide immersive experiences, allowing fans to participate in training routines or view games from unique perspectives. Blockchain technology is also making waves, particularly through the creation of non-fungible tokens that offer fans ownership of exclusive digital collectibles. These advancements not only enhance fan experiences but also create new revenue streams for athletes. As the digital landscape continues evolving, the integration of these cutting-edge technologies will redefine traditional sports marketing, providing opportunities for athletes to monetize their content and build unique brand identities.
Conclusion
Athletes are redefining their roles in the sports and entertainment industries by embracing digital platforms. This evolution not only enhances their income but also strengthens their connection with fans. By diversifying their revenue streams through social media, streaming services, and personal branding, they’re setting new standards for athlete entrepreneurship.
As they navigate this digital landscape, athletes are not just earning money; they’re building lasting relationships with their audiences. The rise of innovative engagement strategies and emerging technologies promises even greater opportunities for athletes to monetize their talents. This transformation marks a significant shift in how sports stars operate, paving the way for future generations to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
The post Athletes and Digital Entertainment: How Sports Stars Are Boosting Income Through Innovation appeared first on BlackSportsOnline.
One of college football’s greatest rivalry games is set to come to an abrupt end as it was about to celebrate its 100th anniversary.
The annual Notre Dame vs. USC football rivalry game is no more after the schools failed to reach an agreement on future matchups, ending one of college football’s most recognizable traditions, according to Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger.
Representatives from both schools had been involved in negotiations to preserve the rivalry over the last several months, but could not agree on terms going forward, at least temporarily ending a football series that had been ongoing since 1926.
Gone, but not for good?
Yes, there is some hope that we could see USC and Notre Dame on the same field in the future.
Administrators from both schools did reach an agreement to resurrect the series as soon as the 2030 season, according to the report.
Until now, just a world war and a global pandemic had prevented Notre Dame and USC from playing each other every season, but now the pressures of the modern college football season, and its postseason format, appear to have played a role.
Whose fault is this?
Concerns about scheduling and how the game would affect College Football Playoff positioning were the decisive factors in bringing an end to the rivalry, according to the report.
Most of that concern seemed to arise from the USC side of the equation, which felt that certain precedents established by the selection committee in punishing teams for losses put the program in a disadvantageous position.
USC hinted this would come
USC head coach Lincoln Riley signaled as much when speaking on the future of the rivalry last year.
“There [have] been a lot of teams that sacrifice rivalry games,” Riley told reporters at Big Ten Media Days last summer.
“As we get into this playoff structure, and if it changes or not, we get into this new conference, we’re going to learn some about this as we go and what the right and best track is to winning a national championship, that’s going to evolve.”
Still, even amid those comments, reps from USC signaled a desire to keep the Notre Dame rivalry, and Fighting Irish head coach Marcus Freeman was adamant on keeping the matchup, too, reflecting the position of his school.
Instead, Notre Dame is poised to finalize a home-and-home series with BYU over the next two seasons that will take the place of USC on its schedule, according to the Yahoo report.
We saw this coming
A recent Sports Illustrated report indicated that USC was hesitant to pledge itself to a long-term agreement with Notre Dame, citing concerns over the future of the College Football Playoff format and the Trojans’ existing schedule and travel demands.
“I want to play USC every year because I think it’s great for college football, that rivalry, USC-Notre Dame,” Marcus Freeman said.
“Before I even got to Notre Dame, everybody watched that game. Everybody remembers moments from that game that just stick out in their mind.”
Another college football tradition bites the dust
Losing a historic rivalry of this pedigree would be another stark reminder of the very strict conditions that schools have to work in in a new environment where playoff selection, and appeasing the College Football Playoff committee, is king.
Known as the greatest intersectional rivalry in college football, USC and Notre Dame have met almost every year since 1926, with World War II and the Covid pandemic being the only exceptions.
Now, to that list of historical anomalies, the very format of modern college football itself could be the decisive factor that puts this great rivalry on the shelf.
(Yahoo)
Read more from College Football HQ
The Oregon Ducks are coming off of a 51-34 win over the James Madison Duke at Autzen Stadium on Saturday in the first round of the College Football Playoff.
The Ducks now advance to face the No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders in the CFP Quarterfinals at the Orange Bowl in Miami, FL. on Jan. 1, but two more members of the Oregon secondary won’t be in attendance.
Per reports from On3’s Hayes Fawcett, Oregon cornerback Sione Laulea is entering the portal and won’t be with the team for the rest of the CFP. Joining him in the portal will be Oregon safety Kingston Lopa, who will have three years of eligibility left. He also won’t be with the Ducks during what hopes to be a run to the National Championship.
Laulea, who arrived to Eugene before the 2024 season, was the top JUCO cornerback prospect out of San Mateo College headed into his first year at Oregon.
Sione Laulea Chose Oregon for Development
He told the media before this season that he chose the Ducks because he thought it was the best fit for him from a developmental standpoint.
“I transferred from junior college, and the biggest fit for me was just development, because I feel like I used two years, so with two years left in eligibility, I feel like I had to make the most out of my two years,” he said. “So the place that was going to develop me the most and where I fit most in the scheme, and I felt like this was a place, especially with the coaching staff, with Tosh (Lupoi) being such an aggressive caller, and (Chris Hampton) as a secondary coach.”
“I feel like it’s been great,” he continued. “As you guys know, there’s not a lot of experience in our back end, specifically the corner room, but there’s some dogs either way, whether we touch the field or not. You can see it clearly in practice that everyone’s making plays on the ball, and it’s pretty much neck and neck.”
MORE: Three Biggest Takeaways From Oregon’s Playoff Win Over James Madison
MORE: Oregon Coach Dan Lanning Is Turning Heads For Ducks’ Playoff Entrance
MORE: National Championship Betting Odds After Oregon’s Win Over James Madison
SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER HERE!
However, things never quite worked out for Laulea. He appeared in 10 games with Oregon while posting just 10 total tackles (five solo), three pass breakups and one pick. His only interception as a Duck came in the 38-9 win over No. 20 Illinois last season.
As for Lopa, he arrived to Oregon as a four-star prospect in the 2024 recruiting class out of Grant Union in Sacramento, CA.
He received some notable praise from Oregon head coach Dan Lanning during the spring.
“It’s just what he does every day in practice. You know, the part that we get to see, and Kingston to be an unbelievable player for us. You know, he’s had a really good spring so far. But you know, he earned those moments by what he did in practice,” Lanning said.
Lopa appeared in 13 games this season while posting 12 total tackles and one pass breakup.
Florida wide receiver Naeshaun Montgomery is planning to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, On3 has learned. He caught three passes for 26 yards in 2025.
Montgomery played high school football at Miami Central (West Palm Beach, FL), where he was a four-star prospect. He was the No. 262 overall recruit in the 2025 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted algorithm that complies all major recruiting media services.
He had a bunch of different premier programs interested in his services as a recruit. We’ll see who comes calling this time around for the wide receiver.
To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire. The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account are excellent resources to stay up to date with the latest moves.
More on Naeshaun Montgomery, NCAA Transfer Portal
Meanwhile, the NCAA Division I Administrative Committee passed dates for the one-time-only college football transfer portal back earlier in October. As it stands, the 2025-26 college football transfer portal will last 15 days. It’ll span Jan. 2 to Jan. 16, the NCAA announced.
Moving forward, the entire Division I football notification of transfer windows is slated for Jan 2-16. As has been the previous standard, athletes on College Football Playoff teams still playing would have 5 days beginning the day after their team’s final game to enter the transfer portal.
Additionally, players have 15 days to enter the portal, but they’re not under a deadline to commit when they enter. Traditionally, the deadline for committing is how late a school can enroll a player through admissions.
One caveat is that if a head coach is fired, the transfer portal will not open for players immediately. The NCAA revealed that moving forward, players will only have 15 days to enter the portal after a coaching change, instead of the former allocation of 30 days. Players will also have to wait five days after a new coach is hired or announced.
Finally, graduate transfers also cannot enter the transfer portal until Jan. 2 with the new one-time-only portal window. All these new guidelines are bound to shake things up, but the transfer portal will still remain as interesting and entertaining as ever.
Dec. 22, 2025, 5:00 a.m. ET
- Some Tennessee football players are expected to negotiate for higher NIL pay after strong performances in the 2025 season.
- Since July, schools can directly pay athletes through revenue sharing, in addition to third-party NIL deals.
- Players who have likely increased their value include DeSean Bishop, Braylon Staley, and several standout freshmen.
- NIL negotiations have become a regular part of the college football calendar, influencing player decisions on transfers and the NFL draft.
Some Tennessee football players will negotiate a raise in NIL pay after overperforming in the 2025 season.
Those discussions have become part of the college football calendar in this era of frequent player movement, and money is a driving force in big decisions.
Negotiations likely started long before No. 23 Tennessee (8-4) plays Illinois (8-4) in the Music City Bowl on Dec. 30 (5:30 p.m. ET, ESPN). And they’ll continue when the transfer portal opens on Jan. 2.
The top players with eligibility remaining consider declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft. Some players consider testing the transfer market by entering the portal. And overperforming players hope to cash in with a pay raise from their school.
Since July, schools have been allowed to pay athletes directly with revenue shares, essentially a royalty for use of their name, image and likeness. Players can earn additional money in third-party NIL pay from collectives, corporations and business owners.
Some players get raises. Other players get pay cuts.
Schools pay players directly under a salary cap of sorts. The payroll works out to about $13.5 million for each college football team, or approximately $170,000 per scholarship player. Those distributions and payroll strategies vary between teams.
And third-party NIL pay can double the earnings of the best players.
None of that payroll information is available to the public, which means it’s impossible to know whether a player is overpaid, underpaid or fairly paid. But it’s reasonable to believe their pay corresponds to their projected level of play.
And if they exceed those expectations, a raise is in order. With that being said, let’s take an educated guess at which players have increased their value.
DeSean Bishop
No Tennessee player has increased his value over the past year as much as running back DeSean Bishop. In January, the former Karns High standout was promoted from walk-on to scholarship player. That likely didn’t come with a big NIL payday because he wasn’t even a starter yet.
But Bishop earned that scholarship, and then some, in the 2025 season. He was named All-SEC second team after rushing for 983 yards and 14 TDs in the regular season. If Bishop wasn’t paid NIL this season, he certainly will next season. And if he was paid this season, it likely didn’t align with an all-conference season.
Braylon Staley
Braylon Staley showed promise heading into the 2025 season, but he was unproven. That quickly changed when he played well in UT’s biggest games and earned SEC Freshman of the Year with 64 receptions, 806 yards and six TDs.
UT may have already paid Staley a solid NIL amount. After all, he was a four-star recruit and top 100 player coming out of high school. But it’s doubtful that Staley was paid like one of the SEC’s top receivers, which he clearly now is.
Wendell Moe
This one is debatable, but leverage could come into play. Wendell Moe was a solid pick-up in the portal in 2025, but he turned into an AP All-SEC performer.
It’s difficult to predict how much UT paid Moe in the 2025 season without knowing the transfer market for his position. If he was coveted by multiple teams, Moe may have been paid well and simply played to that level.
But now Moe has proven to be a good SEC offensive lineman and potential NFL draft prospect. That could land him at least a moderate NIL raise to return in 2026.
Jesse Perry
In the 2024 class, offensive lineman Jesse Perry was rated fifth among five offensive linemen signed by Tennessee, according to 247Sports Composite. He was a three-star recruit.
NIL pay doesn’t always correspond to recruit ratings. But Perry’s moderate grades indicate that he had to prove his value on the field before earning a notable NIL check.
Perry did that in the 2025 season. He started 11 games, including seven at right tackle and four at right guard, and earned Freshman All-America honors.
Granted, his future NIL pay will depend on whether he’s a surefire starter or a versatile backup, but Perry is certainly in a stronger position than a year ago.
Ty Redmond
Like Perry, cornerback Ty Redmond probably entered the 2025 season with a low NIL value and had to prove himself. In the 2025 class, Redmond was rated fourth among five defensive backs signed by Tennessee, according to 247Sports Composite. He was a three-star recruit.
But Redmond, after some early growing pains, turned into a promising young cornerback. He was an All-SEC third-team selection and Freshman All-SEC performer. He tied for the SEC lead with 13 passes defended and led the Vols with three interceptions.
Regardless of what Redmond earned in 2025, he is in a stronger position after his freshman season.
Jordan Ross
This one is more speculative than the rest on this list. After all, edge rusher Jordan Ross was a five-star signee in the 2024 class, so he may already command high pay in NIL money based on his recruit rating.
That being said, Ross is on this list because of his play, his position and his perceived essential status in new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’ defensive scheme. Knowles values edge rushers, and Ross is UT’s most dynamic.
Before being slowed by injuries, Ross showed flashes as a playmaker in the mold of former UT edge rushers Byron Young, James Pearce and Joshua Josephs. He had three tackles-for-loss, 1.5 sacks, six quarterback hurries, one fumble recovery and one forced fumble.
Adam Sparks is the Tennessee football beat reporter. Emailadam.sparks@knoxnews.com. X, formerly known as Twitter@AdamSparks. Support strong local journalism by subscribing at knoxnews.com/subscribe.
Get the latest news and insight on SEC football by subscribing to the SEC Unfiltered newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox.
The No. 10 seed Miami Hurricanes defeated the No. 7 Texas A&M Aggies 10-3 in the first round of the College Football Playoff. It was a defensive battle, ultimately decided by a late fourth-quarter score and red-zone interception by Miami.
With the score tied at 3 and 1 minute, 44 seconds left in the game, Hurricanes wide receiver Malachi Toney scored on an 11-yard touchdown pass thrown by quarterback Carson Beck.
Advertisement
Up next for the Hurricanes is a Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic matchup against the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes. It’s an uphill battle, as ESPN’s matchup predictor gives the Hurricanes a 29.5% chance of winning.
Miami Hurricanes wide receiver Malachi Toney (10).© Robert Myers-Imagn Images
Before his heroic performance, though, the wide receiver revealed an exciting Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) update. In a joint Instagram post, Toney revealed a new NIL partnership with Hellstar, a popular clothing brand that has a sports training component.
Advertisement
“We are so proud to announce our first Hellstar Sports College Athlete NIL signing – Malachi Toney🌟.,” the post caption read. “We had the privilege to coach @malitoney10 while he was apart of our high school 7 on 7 program, so now seeing him shine on the collegiate level we couldn’t be more proud.”
Toney’s On3 NIL valuation of $878,000 is the 12th-highest among college football wide receivers. Among players on Miami, it’s the fourth-highest, behind quarterback Carson Beck ($3.1 million), EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. ($1.2 million) and offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa ($1.1 million).
Advertisement
Through 14 games, Toney has been a major contributor to Miami’s success. He leads the team in receptions (89), yards (992) and touchdowns (eight).
With an exciting NIL opportunity under his belt, he and Miami look to stay hot against Ohio State. Kickoff is Dec. 31 at 7:30 p.m. ET at AT&T Stadium, airing on ESPN and streaming on the ESPN app.
Related: Texas Receives Clear Message From Nation’s No. 2 WR Amid Intense Recruiting Battle
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 21, 2025, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
In the growing landscape of college athletics, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals play a vital role in sports. Some programs are set up better than others based on a program’s valuation. Programs with higher valuations can help some of the top-performing teams stay successful.
CNBC released its valuation rankings for the country’s athletic departments, showing their growth from the 2024 fiscal year. The Colorado Buffaloes are ranked No. 47 in the nation, a rise from No. 55 in 2024.
Breaking Down Colorado Buffaloes’ Valuation Ranking
Colorado’s 2025 valuation is $574 million, with a year-over-year value change of 22 percent. The program’s 2024 revenue is set at $147 million, with a 16 percent year-over-year revenue change.
A program’s valuation determines its monetary worth, and it is important to look at the growth, which shows that Colorado is trending in the right direction. It is also important to note that the valuation rankings are based on all of the athletics, not just the football program.
Where Colorado Ranks In The Big 12
When focusing on the Big 12 conference, several of the programs are in the same vicinity with their valuation ranking.
- No. 39 Kansas: $620M
- No. 41 Oklahoma State: $600M
- No. 42 Baylor: $585M
- No. 46 Iowa State: $575M
- No. 47 Colorado: $574M
- No. 49 Texas Tech: $570M
- No. 50 TCU: $568M
- No. 55 Arizona: $529M
- No. 57 BYU: $500M
- No. 58 West Virginia: $481M
- No. 60 Utah: $451M
- No. 62 Kansas State: $435M
- No. 63 Arizona State: $430M
- No. 68 Cincinnati: $280M
- No. 70 UCF: $262M
- No. 73 Houston: $222M
MORE: Colorado Gets Hit With Biggest Transfer Portal Loss Yet
MORE: Michael Irvin Gets Real On Blame Surrounding Shedeur Sanders
MORE: Deion Sanders Faces Recruiting Problem After Omarion Miller Transfer News
SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER HERE
While from the top valuation of Kansas to the bottom, which is Houston is a significant difference in the Big 12, the conference teams are still in a similar vicinity overall. With it having to do with all athletics, the programs that have consistently strong teams, such as Kansas’ basketball team, make sense to have a higher valuation.
Looking at the Big 12 as a whole shows that the Colorado Buffaloes are in the top five for their valuation and trending upward.
Calling Back To Deion Sanders’ Comments On Fairness
While valuation is not the same as revenue, seeing the difference in the conferences does call back to Colorado coach Deion Sanders’ comments on the fairness between programs. The schools in the top five for their valuation are either in the Big Ten or the SEC, and all are in the billions.
“You talk about equality,” Sanders said during the Big 12 media day. “All you have to do is look at the playoffs and see what those teams spent, and you understand darn near why they’re in the playoffs. It’s kind of hard to compete with somebody who’s giving $25, $30 million to a darn freshman class.”
Although the valuation is on the programs’ overall athletics, Sanders has been outspoken about money when it comes to building the football program. With the Buffaloes facing a mass exodus through the transfer portal, Sanders has highlighted that several players are leaving because of money.
The positive side is that the Buffaloes’ valuation is growing with a 22 percent increase. This shows that the school’s athletics overall are being valued higher, and will help lead to more money poured into the program. With more money, the Buffaloes can put more of an emphasis on NIL as they look to build their roster and compete in the Big 12.
RECOMMENDED ARTICLES
Historic college football rivalry ends after schools fail to reach agreement
Veteran Automotive Executive Andy Thomas Named Vice President of Manufacturer Relations At Ten Tenths Motor Club
FloSports Partners with Chili’s® Grill & Bar To Serve as Official Sponsor of Chili Bowl Nationals Coverage Streamed Exclusively on FloRacing January 12–17
Monday Morning Maui Sports: Oregon State’s Maui Classic is about more than basketball : Maui Now
Jimmie Johnson announcement shuts down another NASCAR rumor
West Fargo United beat Mandan Braves – The Rink Live
The Best AU Pro Basketball & Volleyball Photos of 2025
Germany still waiting as Domenicali cools comeback hopes
Colorado juvenile detention centers facing severe staff shortage
Oregon Loses Two More Players to Transfer Portal Amid College Football Playoff Run
Dominique Dawes’ Father-in-Law Found Dead
Beach Volleyball Releases Spring 2026 Schedule
Kyojo Cup auditions begin as Toyota announces 2026 Japanese Motorsports Programme
Chili’s signs deal to sponsor FloRacing coverage of Chili Bowl Nationals
Beef O’Brady’s expands beyond Florida with 8 new restaurants
First Tee Winter Registration is open
Fargo girl, 13, dies after collapsing during school basketball game – Grand Forks Herald
CPG Brands Like Allegra Are Betting on F1 for the First Time
F1 Las Vegas: Verstappen win, Norris and Piastri DQ tighten 2025 title fight
Sycamores unveil 2026 track and field schedule
Utah State Announces 2025-26 Indoor Track & Field Schedule
Two Pro Volleyball Leagues Serve Up Plans for Minnesota Teams
SoundGear Named Entitlement Sponsor of Spears CARS Tour Southwest Opener
Jo Shimoda Undergoes Back Surgery
Bowl Projections: ESPN predicts 12-team College Football Playoff bracket, full bowl slate after Week 14
Redemption Means First Pro Stock World Championship for Dallas Glenn
Texas volleyball vs Kentucky game score: Live SEC tournament updates
Robert “Bobby” Lewis Hardin, 56
How this startup (and a KC sports icon) turned young players into card-carrying legends overnight
Indiana’s rapid ascent and its impact across college football
-
Motorsports2 weeks agoSoundGear Named Entitlement Sponsor of Spears CARS Tour Southwest Opener
-
Rec Sports3 weeks agoBlack Bear Revises Recording Policies After Rulebook Language Surfaces via Lever
-
Motorsports2 weeks agoDonny Schatz finds new home for 2026, inks full-time deal with CJB Motorsports – InForum
-
Rec Sports2 weeks agoHow Donald Trump became FIFA’s ‘soccer president’ long before World Cup draw
-
Rec Sports2 weeks agoDavid Blitzer, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment
-
Motorsports2 weeks agoJR Motorsports Confirms Death Of NASCAR Veteran Michael Annett At Age 39
-
Sports2 weeks ago
Elliot and Thuotte Highlight Men’s Indoor Track and Field Season Opener
-
Motorsports2 weeks agoRick Ware Racing switching to Chevrolet for 2026
-
Sports2 weeks ago
West Fargo volleyball coach Kelsey Titus resigns after four seasons – InForum
-
Sports2 weeks agoWomen’s track and field athletes win three events at Utica Holiday Classic