The Big Ten Conference has announced a record financial performance, distributing $1.37 billion to its 18 member schools during the 2024–25 fiscal year. Total conference revenue reached approximately $1.47 billion, marking a $540 million increase over its previous high.
The distribution to schools rose by $490 million compared to the prior year, significantly outpacing other major conferences. For comparison, the Southeastern Conference distributed $1.03 billion, while the Big 12 Conference reported $460 million in its most recent financial disclosures.
Key drivers of growth
The revenue surge was driven by several structural changes, including the Big Ten’s expansion to 18 members and the first full year of its new media rights deal, which alone generated more than $1 billion. The introduction of the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff also played a major role in boosting revenues.
Four Big Ten teams qualified for the playoff, with two reaching the semifinals. Ohio State ultimately won the national championship, further enhancing conference payouts.
School-by-School distribution
Among fully vested members, payouts varied based on performance:
- Ohio State — $91.55 million
- Penn State — $88.9 million
- Indiana — $81 million
- Other full members — between $76 million and $79 million
Newer members Oregon and Washington remain on partial revenue shares until 2030, earning $48 million and $46 million respectively.
Executive compensation and costs
Former commissioner Jim Delany received $5.82 million in bonuses and deferred compensation, plus $600,000 in consulting fees after retiring in 2020. Current commissioner Tony Petitti earned over $4.5 million in compensation.
The conference also reported more than $6 million in legal expenses and roughly $5 million spent on officiating technology.
A new financial era in college sports
The figures highlight the growing financial power of major college sports conferences, driven primarily by media rights deals and expanded playoff structures. The Big Ten’s latest results further cement its position as one of the most commercially powerful organizations in U.S. sports.