This is the revenue generated by LSU football and other sports in the fiscal year 2024.
In 2024, LSU Athletics reached an impressive milestone in terms of revenue generation across its sports programs. The fiscal year 2024 proved to be a pivotal year for LSU football, as well as its other athletic departments, solidifying LSU’s place as one of the top revenue-producing athletic programs in the country. The growth in revenues not only showcases LSU’s ability to attract top talent, but also highlights the ongoing support of the LSU community, the athletic department’s strategic decisions, and the overall success of their athletic programs.
This analysis delves into the revenue generated by LSU football and other sports in the fiscal year 2024. It explores both the financial successes and challenges faced by LSU Athletics, as well as the broader impact of its revenue generation on the university’s operations and future prospects.
1. LSU Football: The Cornerstone of Athletic Revenue
LSU football remains the biggest revenue driver for LSU Athletics, with the program consistently ranking among the top in terms of earnings. The 2024 season was no different, as LSU’s football program once again took center stage in both the SEC and national college football scene.
Revenue Breakdown: In 2024, LSU football generated approximately $160 million in total revenue, which accounts for nearly 50% of the entire athletic department’s revenue. This staggering number includes earnings from various sources such as ticket sales, television rights, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.
- Ticket Sales and Game Day Revenue: LSU’s home games at Tiger Stadium continue to be a major source of revenue for the football program. The stadium, which has a capacity of over 102,000 fans, was sold out for every home game in 2024. With an average ticket price of around $100 and a high demand for season tickets, LSU generated substantial revenue from game-day ticket sales. Additionally, LSU’s suite and premium seating options also added significantly to the football program’s revenue stream.
- Broadcast and Media Rights: Television rights and media contracts have become a substantial revenue stream for top college football programs, and LSU is no exception. LSU’s participation in the SEC’s lucrative broadcast deals with ESPN, CBS, and other networks helped to significantly boost the program’s finances. The team’s regular appearance in national broadcasts, including prime-time games, helped to further cement LSU’s financial success in 2024. These broadcast deals are expected to continue growing as college football evolves and networks continue to invest heavily in the sport.
- Sponsorships and Partnerships: LSU has a strong and expansive network of corporate sponsors that have contributed heavily to the financial growth of the football program. Companies such as Nike, Coca-Cola, and various regional and national brands have partnered with LSU, securing multi-million dollar deals. These sponsorships not only generate revenue but also contribute to the program’s global brand recognition, leading to a stronger and more influential presence in college athletics.
- Merchandising: LSU’s football merchandise, including apparel, collectibles, and memorabilia, generated significant revenue in 2024. The team’s consistently high rankings, success in bowl games, and passionate fanbase have ensured that merchandise sales remain strong. The university capitalized on its branding by offering an array of products that catered to fans and alumni alike, further enhancing the program’s revenue stream.
2. Revenue from Other LSU Sports
While football is undeniably the revenue leader at LSU, other sports have also contributed significantly to the overall financial picture of LSU Athletics. In 2024, LSU’s athletic programs showed that the university’s commitment to excellence in a variety of sports is not only on display in football but also in basketball, baseball, and track & field, among others.
Basketball Revenue: LSU men’s basketball, under the leadership of coach Matt McMahon, experienced growth in revenue generation in 2024. With a highly competitive SEC schedule and a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, the men’s basketball program generated $30 million in revenue for the year. This revenue is attributed to ticket sales, media rights, sponsorships, and NCAA tournament appearances. The growth in the program’s popularity, as well as the success of star players, has led to an increase in fan engagement and merchandise sales, further boosting revenue.
Baseball Revenue: LSU baseball has long been a powerhouse in college baseball, and 2024 was no exception. The team’s deep postseason run and strong attendance at Alex Box Stadium, which is consistently ranked among the best college baseball stadiums, led to an estimated $25 million in revenue for the season. Baseball continues to be a key program in LSU’s athletic department, and the program’s continued success at both the regional and national level has made it a consistent source of revenue. The revenue generated by baseball includes ticket sales, television contracts, sponsorships, and postseason participation.
Track & Field and Other Olympic Sports: Track and field, gymnastics, swimming, and other Olympic sports at LSU have also demonstrated consistent growth in revenue, though at a smaller scale compared to football or basketball. In 2024, LSU’s Olympic sports collectively generated around $10 million in revenue. This includes ticket sales for major track and field meets, NCAA tournament appearances for gymnastics, and sponsorships tied to individual athletes. LSU’s success across a range of Olympic sports, particularly in track and field and gymnastics, has bolstered the overall financial picture of LSU Athletics, demonstrating the breadth and depth of the university’s sports programs.
Women’s Sports: LSU women’s sports, particularly basketball and softball, also contributed to the revenue totals. The women’s basketball program, led by head coach Kim Mulkey, saw an incredible surge in both performance and fan engagement. Their participation in the NCAA Tournament and strong regular-season performances led to a $15 million revenue generation. This success has opened the door for increased media attention and corporate sponsorships, signaling a new era of growth for women’s sports at LSU. Women’s softball, similarly, has become more competitive and generates significant fan interest, particularly during the postseason.
3. Investment in Facilities and Infrastructure
LSU’s ability to generate significant revenue is also tied to its continued investment in its athletic facilities. In 2024, LSU made significant upgrades to several key athletic venues, including Tiger Stadium, Pete Maravich Assembly Center (for basketball), and Alex Box Stadium (for baseball). These improvements not only enhance the fan experience but also increase the potential for higher attendance and greater revenue.
The new suites, upgraded seating options, and improved amenities in these venues have helped LSU capitalize on its game-day revenue. The enhanced fan experience, combined with the team’s on-field success, has led to more loyal supporters and higher levels of engagement. Furthermore, LSU’s athletic department continues to invest in training facilities, locker rooms, and performance centers that contribute to the overall development of athletes, ensuring that LSU remains competitive across all sports.
4. The Role of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness)
The advent of NIL has changed the financial landscape of college athletics, and LSU has been one of the leaders in embracing the new reality. In 2024, LSU football and other athletic programs benefited from NIL deals, which brought in substantial financial support for both athletes and the athletic department.
LSU’s ability to foster relationships with local businesses, national brands, and alumni allowed its athletes to capitalize on NIL opportunities. This, in turn, created more media attention for the program, increased fan engagement, and opened up additional revenue streams. By embracing the NIL era, LSU has been able to further solidify its position as one of the top revenue-generating programs in college athletics.
