GRAMBLING, La. | The recent operational review conducted by College Sports Solutions affirms both the strength and the promise of Grambling State University Athletics. I want to thank President Lemelle for his leadership in commissioning this study and for ensuring that our athletics program remains positioned for long-term success in an ever-changing NCAA landscape.
The results validate what our alumni, fans, and student-athletes already know: Grambling competes with heart and results that often exceed our resources. From football revenues that lead the SWAC, to contributions and ticket sales that outpace our peers, Grambling Athletics continues to punch above its weight.
The results affirm our trajectory. Based on NCAA Institutional Performance Program (IPP) data and FY24 financial reports, CSS determined that Grambling Athletics:
Revenue Sharing: A First for GSU Athletics
As part of our next chapter, Grambling Athletics will implement a revenue-sharing initiative beginning October 2025. This program will provide eligible student-athletes with direct financial awards tied to their contributions, achievements, and participation.
To ensure student-athletes are prepared, we will host information sessions the week of September 22, 2025. These sessions will focus on:
This model reflects our belief that student-athletes deserve holistic investment — in their minds, bodies, and futures.
Opportunities Ahead: Facilities, Support Services, and Revenue Sharing
Facilities Upkeep & Revenue Potential
Facilities require consistent, dedicated staffing to ensure daily upkeep that meets the expectations of our student-athletes and fans. Modern, well-maintained facilities not only improve recruiting and performance but also strengthen the financial foundation that makes revenue sharing sustainable.
Student-Athlete Support & Revenue-Sharing Eligibility
Support services such as nutrition, sports medicine, and mental health must expand if we are to deliver the holistic student-athlete experience today's environment demands. These investments directly reinforce eligibility and academic success standards tied to our revenue-sharing program.
Multimedia Rights, Sponsorships & Expanding Revenue Sharing
Multimedia rights and sponsorships represent an untapped opportunity. Our peers are leveraging outside partnerships to grow significantly in this area. Strengthening these partnerships will generate additional resources that can directly support scholarships and revenue-sharing awards.
Outbound Ticket Sales & Direct Investment in Revenue Sharing
Outbound ticket sales are a proven driver of engagement and revenue. Without a structured sales operation, we miss opportunities to capture community support that could be reinvested in scholarships, wellness services, and revenue-sharing distributions to student-athletes.
Financial Aid, NIL, and Revenue Sharing — Staying Competitive
In the era of financial aid, NIL, and revenue sharing, Grambling must continue to innovate. Developing a clear, sustainable model ensures our program remains competitive in recruiting and retention while providing student-athletes with equitable opportunities.
Building Momentum
These are opportunities we embrace, and they are already reflected in the bold steps we are taking:
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On October 10, 2025, we will break ground on our new $6.7 million Indoor Athletic Facility, a state-of-the-art space that will transform training and practice for every sport at Grambling.
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Through the Annual Fund Campaign, built on the TiGerNIL, TiGerNutrition, and TiGersBuild pillars, we are investing directly in scholarships, wellness resources, and facilities that ensure our student-athletes have what they need to succeed on and off the field.
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Recently during our Strategic Athletics and Advancement Conversation, we heard directly from our community. The survey results identified scholarships and student wellness as top priorities. We are listening, and we are aligning our actions to those expectations.
Grambling Athletics has always been about more than competition. It is about community, legacy, and creating opportunities for the next generation of Tigers. With the roadmap provided by CSS, the strength of our team, and the unwavering support of our alumni and fans, I am confident that Grambling will continue to rise as a model for HBCU athletics nationwide.
Dr. Trayvean Scott
Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics
Grambling State University
