Howard Basketball Coach Seeks $100 Million Investment

Washington, D.C. – Howard University men’s basketball coach Kenny Blakeney is reportedly seeking to sell a 33% stake in the program for $100 million, reflecting the growing commercialization of college athletics. In discussions with private equity firms and investors, Blakeney aims to secure funding for upgrades to the team’s arena and roster, as well as a potential move to a larger conference beyond the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, where Howard currently competes. Blakeney emphasized the evolving landscape of college sports, stating, “College athletics is a full-fledged business now.” He has indicated that he will delay further discussions with university officials until he has secured potential investors. The feasibility of his ambitious investment proposal remains uncertain, but it highlights the innovative strategies that schools, particularly those with limited revenue streams, may adopt in response to the changing dynamics of college athletics. The NCAA, along with major conferences, is moving towards a model that allows for revenue sharing with athletes, with plans to allocate approximately $22 million to student-athletes starting in 2025. This figure is expected to increase as athletic revenues grow, particularly for schools in power conferences. Blakeney noted the urgency of the situation, stating, “There is a short window of opportunity because the speed that NIL is moving, the transfer portal is moving, the professionalism of our business is happening.” As college sports continue to evolve, Blakeney’s proposal may signal a new era of investment and competition for programs like Howard’s.