NCAA Basketball: 10 most valuable programs in terms of finances

4. Duke

Market Value: $486 Million

What helped: Duke is the best program in the best basketball conference. So many of their games are nationally televised – and frankly, a lot of haters tune in to see if they’ll lose.

Why it’s not higher: Gameday operations. Cameron indoor is a relatively tiny facility; its seating capacity is less than half that of the nearby Dean Smith Center. Fewer tickets to sell and fewer patrons to buy food and merchandise.

Overall: In recent years, Duke Basketball has operated with an outstanding profit margin. Its annual profit growth and national recognition would make Duke an attractive franchise for potential buyers.

**Beyond what’s available in the U.S. Dept. of Education database, Forbes could not obtain additional accounting information for Duke; new information could significantly change their valuation.

3. Syracuse

Market Value: $563 Million

What helped: Syracuse always ranks 1st or 2nd in total home attendance, thanks to a devoted fanbase that fills up the massive Carrier Dome.

Why it’s not higher: Maybe they didn’t get creative enough with their accounting?

Overall: Syracuse Basketball grows profits at a high rate. Its annual profit growth, healthy margins, giant venue, and ACC membership make Syracuse an attractive franchise for potential buyers.

**Beyond what’s available in the U.S. Dept. of Education database, Forbes could not obtain additional accounting information for Syracuse; new information could significantly change their valuation.