These California schools have the most valuable sports programs NBC 7 San Diego [Video]

USC was the top California school in a new CNBC ranking of the 75 most valuable college athletic programs in 2024.

The CNBC rankings, topped by Ohio State University, estimated what valuations of the top athletic programs would look like as private equity firms aim to enter college sports. CNBC’s Michael Ozanian compiled the rankings, with valuations ranging from about $150 million to an astounding $1.3 billion, after speaking with sports bankers and people looking to invest into college athletic programs.

Valuations were then calculated with a revenue multiple of four. That figure was adjusted up or down based on factors like TV revenue, size of alumni and fan bases, value of Name Image Likeness (NIL deals) and the program’s reliance on subsidies from students or the school.

Big Ten and SEC programs performed the strongest, reflecting their lucrative TV deals, Ozanian said. Programs from the two powerhouse conference made up 21 of the top 22 spots.

The ranking offers insight into how …