Story perspectives

Congress Targets Tax-Deductible Donations Amid Rising Coach Severance Costs

12/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

In 2025, Congress's tax-deductible donations to universities support severance payments for fired coaches.
Fifteen universities owe $228 million in severance, surpassing last year's $121 million, per Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics.
Louisiana State University owes Brian Kelly $54 million.
Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) proposes legislation taxing school athletics programs and revoking the NCAA's tax-exempt status.
Taxpayers fund high coach salaries, with over 100 earning $1 million or more in 2024.

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Story summary

In 2025, Congress's tax-deductible donations to universities support severance payments for fired coaches.
Fifteen universities owe $228 million in severance, surpassing last year's $121 million, per Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics.
Louisiana State University owes Brian Kelly $54 million.
Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) proposes legislation taxing school athletics programs and revoking the NCAA's tax-exempt status.
Taxpayers fund high coach salaries, with over 100 earning $1 million or more in 2024.