Players Era Updates: Big 12’s Significant Monday in Las Vegas

Matt Norlander brings a range of updates from Las Vegas, featuring the Big 12’s noteworthy five-year investment in the Players Era, estimated to be over $50 million in revenue. Here’s a recap of the day’s action:

• Big 12’s Dominance: The conference achieved a perfect record of 4-0 on Monday:

  • Baylor defeated Creighton (81-74)
  • Iowa State outlasted St. John’s (83-82)
  • Kansas managed a 71-61 win against Notre Dame
  • Houston needed overtime to edge Syracuse (78-74)

• Injury News: Iowa State’s point guard, Tamin Lipsey suffered a groin injury towards the end of the match against St. John’s, raising questions about his participation in Tuesday’s games against Creighton.

“We’re still evaluating,” TJ Otzelberger, Iowa State’s head coach, stated about Lipsey’s condition.

• Baylor’s Shine: Along with victory, coach Scott Drew expressed satisfaction at his team’s chemistry and performance, particularly highlighting the contributions from Cameron Carr, who scored 21 points.

Big 12’s Major Deal with Players Era

The Big 12, Players Era, and EverWonder Studio announced a significant collaboration that ensures at least eight Big 12 teams will compete in the Players Era Championship over the next five years, indicating a commitment to expanding the event from 18 to 32 teams by 2026.

“Over the next six years, Players Era will commit at least $50 million to Big 12 basketball programs in rights fees,” said Seth Berger, co-founder of Players Era.

Future outlook: The ramifications of this deal could extend greatly throughout college basketball, especially given how existing contracts affect team inclusions in future events.