The NCAA has voted unanimously to allow college athletes to be compensated off of their own likeness. The NCAA board has directed the three divisions of college sports to begin to update their rules. The term that was used to describe the changes was “in a manner consistent with the collegiate model”. The NCAA stressed the need to continue to differentiate between collegiate and professional sports.
NCAA Board of Governors starts process to enhance name, image and likeness opportunities: https://t.co/DEoYlE8s5n pic.twitter.com/fENErn0xE7
— Inside the NCAA (@InsidetheNCAA) October 29, 2019
This seems to be a step in the right direction for the NCAA but was likely directly a result of California passing a bill that would mandate college athletes be allowed to receive compensation for their likeness. The NCAA wants its divisions to begin now, but implementation will need to be in effect by January of 2021.
Board Chair Michel Drake had the following to say after the unanimous vote. “We must embrace change to provide the best possible experience for college athletes, additional flexibility in this area can and must continue to support college sports as a part of higher education. This modernization for the future is a natural extension of the numerous steps NCAA members have taken in recent years to improve support for student-athletes, including full cost of attendance and guaranteed scholarships.”
Several states were debating bills similar to the one in California and one U.S. Congressmen was considering similar legislation. The college sports organization seemingly had its hand forced after years of denying the need for such rules.
The NCAA voted to allow athletes to profit from their likeness …
… so you’re saying there’s a chance? ? pic.twitter.com/kUKDzEdYio
— College GameDay (@CollegeGameDay) October 29, 2019
One storyline that many people care about is the potential for EA Sports to bring back the popular video games NCAA Football and Basketball.
All this NCAA statement does is placate people who wanted them to get the ball rolling. When guys like Coach K came out pro-NIL, they truly had no choice.
Bottom line – this means absolutely nothing until we see the specifics in place regarding what is allowed, and what is not.
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) October 29, 2019
This could help the NCAA’s image and public relations problem. The move will still be controversial to some and the rules have not been implemented or even announced. There is still a healthy level of skepticism of this rule change and how it will unfold in the organization.
