CNBC’s Official College Sports Valuations 2025: Top 75 athletic programs

College Sports Valuations and Trends - College sports valuations are surging due to bigger media deals, expanded playoffs, and conference realignment [1] - The top 75 athletic programs are now worth a total of $512 billion, up 24% from 2024 [1][2] - The University of Texas at Austin is the most valuable athletic program, valued at almost $148 billion [2] - Increased media rights deals, such as the Big 12 doubling its agreement, are driving valuations [3] - The College Football Playoffs' new deal with ESPN will increase its value to $13 billion starting next year [4] Factors Influencing Valuation - Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights and a pro sports business model are shaping the college landscape [1] - NIL money is becoming a significant factor and will be on the balance sheet starting next year [9] - Donor money, such as that used for stadium renovations, can cause year-to-year fluctuations in revenue [6][7] - Private equity is increasingly looking at college programs and conferences as investment opportunities [10][11] Concerns and Future Implications - There are concerns about the impact of professionalization on student athletes and less popular sports [12][17] - The increasing player movement and coach turnover reflect a shift towards a professional sports model [13] - Lockouts in sports like the WNBA could pose risks to valuations, especially with emerging competitors [19][21][22]