Oregon State University decided head men’s basketball coach Wayne Tinkle was an important part of the program’s future, Tuesday. The program expressed that importance with a six-year, nearly $17 million dollar extension. By the end of said deal, Tinkle will earn close to $3 million per year. The coach helped a paltry team make history, and take the Beavers to their first Elite 8 appearance since the 1980’s. He deserves the money.
But where did this money come from?
It’s an important question to ask considering the financial climate post COVID, especially for universities. According to local news outlets, the university dropped close to $200 million in lost revenue due to a drop in attendance and ticket sales. Former University President F. King Alexander told KGW News Channel 8 that he expected the federal government to contribute $30 million to help OSU.
Amid all the financial tumult that’s sure to follow universities next season, it’s difficult to figure out how Oregon State plans to dish out money for Tinkle’s extension.
Tinkle’s accomplishments have surely brought attention to the university, and no doubt revenue, thanks to his team’s deep tournament run. This past season Tinkle led Oregon State to its first-ever Pac-12 Conference Tournament championship and an automatic bid in the NCAA Tournament.
Only time will tell if he’s truly worth the extended price.
Hindsight is 20/20, and the year 2026 can be filled with different opinions.