Mark Cuban making his presence felt in college football by donating more money to alma mater Indiana
- - Mark Cuban making his presence felt in college football by donating more money to alma mater Indiana
Criss ParteeJanuary 7, 2026 at 11:48 PM
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Amid Indiana University's remarkable undefeated college football season, IU alumnus Mark Cuban is raising the stakes by donating more money to the athletic department.
“Already committed for this portal,” Cuban told Front Office Sports via email.
Mark Cuban is funding Indiana NIL.Cuban gave "a big number" to the Hoosiers in 2024. Now, with Indiana undefeated and chasing a national championship, the billionaire IU alumnus tells FOS:"Let's just say they are happier this year than last year." pic.twitter.com/Bs5uA4h6aO
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) January 7, 2026
Hoosiers athletic director Scott Dolson decides how to handle the funds, Cuban explained to “FOS,” but did not reveal the amount he donated this time.
“Let’s just say they are happier this year than last year,” Cuban wrote.
While Indiana’s dream season continues, the college football transfer portal opened on Jan. 2, and the Hoosiers quickly put Cuban’s funds to good use. Indiana has already added TCU quarterback Josh Hoover, who is expected to replace Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza at the position.
The Hoosiers have also signed Boston College running back Turbo Richard and Michigan State wide receiver Nick Marsh, two of the top players available in this year’s portal.
Before Dec. 2024, Cuban had never donated directly to Indiana’s athletic department. Cuban told CBS Sports in October that he gave “a big number” to the athletic department, and said his connection with head coach Curt Cignetti influenced that decision. Cignetti and Cuban both have Pittsburgh-area roots and were born in the same hospital three years apart.
Cuban was present for IU’s Rose Bowl blowout victory over Alabama, which advanced them to the College Football Playoff Semifinals. Indiana will face Oregon in the Peach Bowl on Friday for a chance to play in the National Championship game on Jan. 19.
Formerly the majority owner of the Dallas Mavericks, Cuban sold his majority stake in the team in late 2023. Cuban is still a minority owner in the franchise.
Source: “AOL Sports”
