A fair amount of time in this space discusses the differing equipment deals universities strike with manufacturers. This is because for an athletic department, the financial impact of upgrading an equipment contract after a bidding war can be massive. Tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars going to a school over the lifetime of an equipment contract ensure that big deals are noteworthy. Furthermore, the benefits are mutual; the recognition in a key demographic a company can gain as a result of winning a major university account means it is vitally important that both sides get the deal right.
Office of Strategic Communication