The introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals drastically changed the landscape of college basketball. These agreements have become critical for recruiting and keeping top talent.
As of the 2024-25 season, numerous schools have emerged as leaders in NIL spending, demonstrating their dedication to attracting great athletes.
Top 10 Highest-NIL-Spending College Basketball Programs This Season
The college basketball world lit up after analytics expert Evan Miya shared eye-popping figures showing which programs are investing the most into NIL for the 2024–25 season.
Here are the CBB programs that are *estimated* to have spent the most NIL money on incoming transfers this offseason so far.
Michigan 8.8 million
Kentucky 7.6m
Maryland 7.1m
Miami 7.1m
Iowa 6.6m
Virginia 6.2m
Washington 5.9m
Creighton 5.6m
Georgetown 5.5m
Xavier 5.5mThese are…
— Evan Miyakawa (@EvanMiya) April 14, 2025
1. Michigan Wolverines: $8.8 Million
Michigan leads the nation in NIL spending, reflecting a huge rebuilding effort under new head coach Dusty May. This financial commitment has made them a popular destination for elite transfers and high school recruits.
2. Kentucky Wildcats: $7.6 Million
Kentucky has boosted its NIL efforts after a new coach, Mark Pope, took over. A purported $4 million anonymous donation has boosted recruiting and helped the Wildcats restock quickly.
T-3. Maryland Terrapins: $7.1 Million
Maryland’s strong NIL policy has received attention, allowing it to compete with top-tier programs for excellent talent. The Terrapins hope to break through in the Big Ten.
T-3. Miami (FL) Hurricanes: $7.1 Million
Miami has doubled down on NIL after reaching the Final Four in 2023 to maintain its national prominence. The Hurricanes remain a significant member of the ACC’s developing power structure.
5. Iowa Hawkeyes: $6.6 Million
Iowa’s surprise NIL surge demonstrates the program’s commitment to being a credible competitor. The Hawkeyes have leveraged this advantage to bolster their roster with high-value transfers and budding stars.
6. Virginia Cavaliers: $6.2 Million
Virginia’s emphasis on NIL investment is consistent with Tony Bennett’s drive to return to national prominence. Strategic spending has enabled the Cavaliers to reload on both ends of the court.
7. Washington Huskies: $5.9 Million
Washington’s daring NIL play has helped reinvigorate the program after a few quiet seasons. They are currently establishing themselves as a rising force on the West Coast.
8. Creighton Bluejays: $5.6 Million
Creighton continues to outperform its rivals, attracting high-profile transfers and preventing top players from leaving early. Their Big East stock is rapidly growing.
T-9. Georgetown Hoyas: $5.5 Million
With new leadership in place, Georgetown is launching a big NIL campaign to rebuild its brand.
The Hoyas are making significant investments to recapture their past dominance.
T-9. Xavier Musketeers: $5.5 Million
Xavier’s dedication to NIL has made them an enduring Big East competitor. The Musketeers will use this money to preserve team depth and improve their tournament possibilities.
RELATED: Top 10 Men’s College Basketball Players With the Highest NIL Valuations in 2024-25
The 2024-25 season highlights the evolving dynamics of collegiate basketball, where NIL agreements play a vital role in determining program success. As schools negotiate this new terrain, strategic NIL investments will remain critical for attracting top talent and delivering on-court success.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and baseball!
