Big Ten Network pushed to profitability using a model other conferences might follow

Big Ten Network making money because of fan wishes

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The Big Ten Network started in 2007 and was profitable by the next year, generating tens of millions of dollars for the conference.

The network works well enough that it could be a model for other conferences and even individual schools. Texas senior associate athletic director Christine Polonsky says the Big Ten got a lot right with its network. Texas is looking to form its own.

Conferences like the Pac-10 and Big 12 are trying, too.