The NIL, or name, image and likeness are the three elements that make up right of publicity. It primarily targets student-athletes in college sports. Because of the NIL, athletes can receive compensation for all publicity they are connected with. A couple weeks ago, Indiana University fired their football coach. In a statement he posted after he got fired, he urged IU to embrace the changes in college sports and work to find enough NIL money to compete with other programs who are currently ahead of us.

Junior Maya Makalusky recently committed to IU for basketball. “I think its super awesome that athletes can finally benefit and make money off of their own brand” said Makalusky. The NIL is seen to empower athletes and give them their personal brands. “As athletes, you don’t have a lot of time for jobs so now you can turn your NIL into your job”

It is super important that colleges take in the NIL, to help themselves and their students. The rise of social media and digital platforms has played a crucial role in amplifying the NIL opportunities for student-athletes, providing them with direct channels to connect with fans and sponsors. Maya Is excited for the opportunity to accept NIL from sponsors that have already reached out.