DESTIN, Fla. — Following the recent settlement between the NCAA and the House that will see athletes receive approximately $20 million from teams starting next year, discussions during the SEC meetings this week revolved around new revenue-generating ideas. Suggestions ranged from sponsorships on fields to naming rights for arenas and adjustments to ticket prices. One concept, however, was quickly dismissed by athletic directors and presidents: private equity.
While private equity firms expressed interest in investing in college sports, including women’s basketball and baseball, concerns were raised by SEC administrators about potential interference in decision-making processes. Citing cautionary tales from experiences with private equity, SEC commissioner Greg Sankey emphasized the importance of exercising caution before considering such investment opportunities.
Sankey highlighted the risks associated with private equity involvement in college sports by referring to the challenges faced by Red Lobster following a partnership with private equity firms. He expressed skepticism towards the idea and emphasized the necessity of careful consideration before engaging with outside investors who may seek to influence operations.
Notable changes to SEC game schedules were announced, including in-state rivalries moving to Black Friday and adjustments to game times to accommodate more viewership. The conference also revealed details of a bonus structure for the expanded College Football Playoff, with teams eligible for varying payouts based on their performance in the tournament.
Discussions at the SEC meetings also touched on the possibility of implementing mandated injury reports for football teams, a measure aimed at preventing the misuse of inside information by gamblers. Coaches expressed varying opinions on the matter, with some acknowledging the potential benefits of increased transparency regarding player injuries.
As conversations around potential changes to college sports continue, including the impact of the NCAA vs. House settlement on scholarship limits in sports like baseball, administrators and coaches are navigating a complex landscape of opportunities and challenges. The evolving nature of collegiate athletics presents both promise and uncertainty for student-athletes and institutions alike.