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 Kansas Jayhawks (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

8. Kansas

Market Value: $349 million

What helped: Annual ticket sales exceeding $15 million.

Why it’s not higher: Kansas’ profit growth has stalled in recent years. Their valuation took a major hit because of this.

Overall: Although Kansas rakes in gameday revenue and postseason distributions, it has missed out on TV money that teams in other conferences have enjoyed. Until 2020, the Big 12 didn’t have the same TV deals as the Big 10, SEC, or ACC. A recent media rights deal between the Big 12 and ESPN should remedy that. At $349 million, Kansas is steeply undervalued.

7. Michigan

Market Value: $421 million

What helped: Michigan Basketball has grown profits at a higher annual rate than its Big 10 competitors. Michigan’s profit growth valuation made up for its current revenue and earnings-based valuations.

Why it’s not higher: The Wolverines generate the least revenue among the top 10 most valuable programs. Like Wisconsin, the basketball program might benefit more if the football team wasn’t such a big deal.

Overall: Michigan Basketball operates at a healthy profit margin. Its annual profit growth and Big 10 membership would make Michigan an attractive franchise for potential buyers.

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