On Friday, the NCAA established another revenue source as Division I leaders greenlit the addition of uniform patches, a decision that could potentially raise millions to support athletic departments exploring innovative ways to compensate players.
Starting August 1, Division I teams are permitted to add up to two patches, each no larger than 4 square inches, to their uniforms during regular-season competitions. These patches will be in addition to the logos already permitted for uniform manufacturers.
Rules committees overseeing postseason events will determine the approach for March Madness, the College World Series, and other playoff tournaments, ensuring that individual institutions do not promote companies that rival NCAA sponsors.
The College Football Playoff is also examining the possibility of allowing patches for its postseason games.
Certain NBA franchises are reportedly earning significant revenue, with eight-figure amounts from selling space on their team uniforms to sponsors. According to Sports Business Journal, college football and basketball teams could potentially reap between $500,000 and $12 million from their patches.
This initiative aligns with efforts by schools to fund the $20.5 million in revenue they are permitted to distribute to players under new regulations that took effect this academic year. The decision comes roughly 18 months after the NCAA sanctioned the placement of logos on football fields.
“Today’s vote by the Cabinet underscores the ongoing dedication of Division I members to generate additional revenue and fully support” the new player benefits, stated Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman, who oversees the Division I rulemaking body.
The NBA, NHL, and Major League Baseball have all embraced advertising on their uniforms in the past nine years, while the NFL remains the only major American league yet to explore this revenue opportunity.
