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WSU releases financial records

Washington State University has released its athletic department financial records for the past fiscal year. The pain of WSU`s failure to make a bowl appearances was eased because the Cougars earned $1.5 million - a school record when not going to a bowl - as their share of Pac-10 bowl profits. The Cougars finished less than $15,000 in the black for the year, but many I-A football schools lose money on athletics. When previous money in hand and funds destined for specific purposes in the upcoming year are included, the Cougars reported a net profit of nearly $900,000. In addition to the school-record $850,000 that WSU will receive for playing at powerful Auburn next year, the Cougars could rake in another $500,000 or so if CBS decides to take the game from ESPN. ESPN is set to pay the Cougars approximately $250,000 for the game. WSU athletic director Jim Sterk said CBS officials have approached Auburn and WSU about televising the game nationally "if we both have good seasons. That would double our TV money."