Is NIL Having a Negative or Positive Effect on the Landscape of College Sports?

"When college athletes start signing endorsement deals, promoting brands on social media, and earning money from their name, image, and likeness (NIL), the impact reaches far beyond personal profit. The shift has redefined the economics of college athletics by challenging long-standing ideas about amateurism, recruiting, and team balance. As athletes embrace newfound autonomy, universities and fans alike are left to ask: Is this transformation strengthening or undermining the spirit of college sports?"

"When the NCAA lifted its restrictions on name, image, and likeness (NIL) on July 1, 2021, college players gained new leverage. Under the latest model, athletes can sign sponsorships, launch merchandise lines, and build their personal brand in ways that were once reserved for pros. For top athletes, the impact has been dramatic. Some college athletes now earn millions through social-media deals and brand partnerships."

"For example, high-profile athletes with millions of Instagram followers have enabled brands to tap into new markets, thus converting followers into revenue streams. Beyond the big-money stories, NIL has also opened doors for athletes in lesser-known sports. Deals were previously seen as reserved for football and men's basketball. However, female athletes and competitors in sports such as gymnastics and softball are also gaining followers, sponsorships, and recognition."

Since July 1, 2021, NCAA rule changes on name, image, and likeness (NIL) allow college athletes to sign sponsorships, launch merchandise lines, and monetize social-media followings. Top athletes can earn millions through brand partnerships, while athletes in lesser-known sports and women’s programs increasingly secure followers, sponsorships, and recognition. NIL provides a measure of fairness by letting athletes capture value they previously helped create for schools and media partners. NIL also delivers real-world business education in negotiating deals, managing brand image, and handling taxes and contracts. Early fears that NIL would simply concentrate talent in power programs are appearing less definitive.

Read at Aol