NCAA women's basketball distribution

The NCAA Division I Board of Directors has proposed a new revenue distribution plan for women's basketball teams, aiming to financially reward performance in the NCAA Tournament, similar to the men's system. If approved in a January vote, the initiative will commence in 2025, funded by a new media rights deal with ESPN valued at approximately $65 million per tournament. The plan introduces the Women's Basketball Equal Conference Fund and the Women's Basketball Performance Fund, which together will reach $25 million by 2027. NCAA President Charlie Baker emphasized that this move addresses long-standing gender equity issues highlighted since 2021. The financial incentives represent a significant step towards establishing a fairer revenue-sharing system for women's sports. This proposal reflects the NCAA's commitment to investing in women's basketball and enhancing its visibility and support.