NCAA Basketball: 10 most valuable programs in terms of finances

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 22: A detail view of a Wilson basketball on the court during the game between the Kentucky Wildcats and North Carolina Tar Heels during the CBS Sports Classic at the United Center on December 22, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

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NCAA Basketball Micah Potter Wisconsin Badgers (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

10. Wisconsin

Market Value: $326 million

What helped: The Badgers bring more than 17,000 fans to each home game. That’s a lot of ticket revenue.

Why it’s not higher: There’s only so much donor money to go around. If Wisconsin football wasn’t so good, the basketball team might see even more love from donors.

Overall: In a crowded regional sports market, Wisconsin hoops does well for itself. The basketball program competes with a larger sport at their own school, not to mention several in-state pro sports franchises (Bucks, Packers, Brewers). Wisconsin’s ability to fill its arena and generate revenue the way it does is a testament to its brand strength and fan loyalty. This resiliency is promising for a potential pro sports franchise owner.

9. Arkansas

Market Value: $332 million

What helped: Arkansas uses its assets efficiently, turning a 3-year profit margin of 56%.

Why it’s not higher: Arkansas’ revenue is the 2nd lowest among the top 10 most valuable programs.

Overall: The Razorbacks have a supportive fanbase, driven by decades of success: Eddie Sutton brought them to prominence in the 70s and 80s, while Nolan Richardson’s “40 Minutes of Hell” teams terrorized opponents throughout the 1990s. If you’re buying a basketball franchise, there’s real value to be had in Arkansas.

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