What is the Big 12's new Players Era Championship investment?

The Big 12 has invested $50 million in an equity partnership to secure the future of the Players Era Championship.

How many Big 12 teams will be in the Players Era Championship?

Eight Big 12 teams are guaranteed spots in the expanded 32-team Players Era Championship field.

What are the NIL benefits for Big 12 teams in the Players Era Championship?

Each Big 12 team will receive $1 million for name, image, and likeness (NIL) purposes.

Home / Sports / Big 12's $50M Deal: Players Era Championship Future Solidified

Big 12's $50M Deal: Players Era Championship Future Solidified

1 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Big 12 secures the Players Era Championship with a $50M equity partnership.
Eight Big 12 teams are guaranteed spots in the expanded 32-team field.
Each Big 12 team will receive $1 million for name, image, and likeness purposes.

Big 12's $50M Deal: Players Era Championship Future Solidified

The Big 12 has solidified the future of the Players Era Championship by announcing a substantial $50 million equity partnership. This landmark agreement guarantees eight conference teams a place in the expanded 32-team tournament moving forward, ensuring consistent representation for the Big 12. A significant benefit of this deal is the allocation of $1 million per team specifically for name, image, and likeness (NIL) purposes, providing crucial financial support for student-athletes.

Despite the newfound financial stability and guaranteed berths, the tournament's format has been criticized as cumbersome and in need of reform. This season's event in Las Vegas highlighted these issues, with some teams, like Iowa State, performing well but not qualifying for the lucrative money games, raising concerns about NIL compensation under the current system. The conference is reportedly considering a new structure featuring four eight-team pods, with the winners advancing to a playoff.