“Already committed to this portal,” via email.
Hoosiers athletic director Scott Dolson decides how to handle the funds, Cuban explained to “FOS,” but he did not reveal the amount he donated this time.
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“Let’s just say they are happier this year than last year,” Cuban wrote.
As Indiana’s dream season continues, the college football transfer portal opened on Jan. 2 and the Hoosiers quickly put Cuban’s funds to good use. Indiana already added TCU quarterback Josh Hoover, who is expected to replace Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza at the position.
The Hoosiers also signed Boston College running back Turbo Richard and Michigan State wide receiver Nick Marsh, two of the top players available in this year’s portal.
Prior to December 2024, Cuban had never donated directly to Indiana’s athletic department. Cuban told the athletics department and said his connection with head coach Curt Cignetti influenced that decision. Cignetti and Cuban have roots in the Pittsburgh area and were born in the same hospital three years apart.
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Cuban was present for IU’s crushing Rose Bowl victory over Alabama, which advanced them to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Indiana will face Oregon in the Peach Bowl on Friday for a chance to play in the National Championship game on January 19.
Cuban, the former majority owner of the Dallas Mavericks, sold his majority stake in the team at the end of 2023. Cuban remains a minority owner in the franchise.