J Batt to earn nearly $3 million per year at Kentucky

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 9:24 PM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

J Batt to earn nearly $3 million per year at Kentucky
Summary

J Batt has signed a six-year contract with Kentucky, set to pay him $17.85 million in total compensation. The deal increases his earnings by $5.25 million compared to his contract with Michigan State, where he earned $1.85 million last year. Batt's new compensation begins at $2.6 million in the first year, which will rise annually due to supplemental compensation. The contract also includes a $5 million buyout payment to Michigan State, following President Kevin Guskiewicz's announcement to leave the school. Batt’s tenure at Michigan State was brief, marked by significant fundraising initiatives and plans for stadium renovations.

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By the Numbers
  • Kentucky contract totals $17.85 million over six years.
  • Batt's compensation increases to $3.35 million in the final year.
  • He previously served as Michigan State's AD for one year.
  • Kentucky will cover Batt's $5 million buyout from Michigan State.
  • Batt initiated a $1 billion capital campaign at Michigan State.
Latest Updates
  • 9:38 PMYahoo SportsHow much will Kentucky athletics director J Batt make on 6-year deal?
  • 9:24 PMYahoo SportsFormer MSU AD J Batt will make nearly $3 million per year at Kentucky
What they're saying
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Kentucky has hired J Batt as athletics director and Champions Blue CEO. Here's what the former Michigan State AD will make with the Wildcats:

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J Batt left Michigan State for Kentucky and received a six-year contract paying him $17.85 million in total compensation.

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