The Big Ten Conference earned $69.4 million from the NCAA men's and women's basketball tournaments, the largest share among all conferences. This windfall stems directly from the conference's dominance, with Michigan winning the men's title and UCLA capturing the women's championship. The Big Ten's 12 women's teams and nine men's teams combined for at least $69.4 million, dwarfing the Southeastern Conference's $56.2 million and the Big 12's $42.9 million.

Payments are based on a 'unit' system where teams earn units for tournament appearances and advancing rounds, with the national champion receiving an extra unit. The men's unit value for 2026 is $350,000, totaling at least $2.1 million over six years. Michigan alone contributed $14.7 million through six tournament games and the championship unit.