If a federal judge approves a multi-billion-dollar settlement on Monday for three athlete-compensation antitrust cases, Texas Tech is ready to proceed with its revenue-sharing plan, as outlined by athletics director Kirby Hocutt and deputy AD Jonathan Botros. The plan allocates most of the projected $20.5 million in revenue-sharing funds to football and men’s basketball players, with the baseball program receiving 1.9% — approximately $390,000.
This has raised concerns among some Texas Tech fans, who feel that the baseball program is receiving a disproportionately small share, considering the team’s success, including four College World Series appearances and multiple Big 12 championships. However, head coach Tim Tadlock defended the plan, stating that it represents “as much as they could possibly do” for the baseball program.
Tadlock emphasized that the revenue-sharing plan, combined with athletic scholarships, will help cover players’ costs and potentially provide some additional financial support for a select few. He also clarified that despite some concerns, the baseball program is not being shortchanged, as the program is getting “almost $400,000 more than before.”
The proposed settlement, which was initially given preliminary approval in October, could take effect for the 2025-26 school year if the final approval is granted. Hocutt and Botros stated that Texas Tech plans to allocate the majority of revenue-sharing funds to football (74%) and men’s basketball (17-18%), with smaller portions going to other sports. Baseball is one of the smaller recipients due to the program’s financial challenges, including a reported $3 million loss in the 2024 fiscal year.
Tadlock noted that the revenue-sharing agreement aligns with college baseball’s long-standing efforts to provide players with the resources to cover their full educational costs, including tuition, fees, room and board. The plan is seen as a significant step forward, with Tadlock expressing pride that it helps cover the costs for 27 to 30 players, allowing coaches more flexibility with the funds.
Furthermore, athletes will still be able to monetize their name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals under the settlement, though those exceeding $600 will be subject to a fair-market-value assessment. However, the revenue-sharing pool’s funding will also be used for new scholarships, but Texas Tech has decided not to add additional scholarships, choosing instead to allow for more flexibility in using the funds.
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