It’s always interesting to see how far into the money-bag athletic programs reach for some of the nonconference opponents in the revenue sports. And while you won’t see the type of numbers flying around for football, some of the contracts for opponents in basketball to come and play at a significant basketball program can also reach pretty high.
Thanks to a report from Adam Jardy of the Columbus Dispatch (subscription may be required), we now know what kind of money the Ohio State basketball program is paying for its nonconference home opponents this coming season.
The Buckeyes will open up the season on November 6 at home vs. Oakland, who will receive the highest payout of $95,000. OSU’s other opponents — Merrimack (Nov. 15), Western Michigan (Nov. 19), Central Michigan (Nov. 29), and Miami (Ohio) (Dec. 5 or 6) will all receive $90,000 each. Some quick math shows a total payout of $455,000.
Here's how much Ohio State is paying its non-conference foes in men's basketball https://t.co/ccp1sXnkX5
— Columbus Dispatch (@DispatchAlerts) July 5, 2023
If you are wondering about other nonconference games, the bigger teams (Texas A&M), as well as other events the Buckeyes will play in don’t result in money shelled out by the program, and in some cases, have money going back into the athletic department’s pocket.
The season will be here before you know it.
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