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<h2>Name, Image, and Likeness in College Sports</h2>
<p>The term "Name, Image, and Likeness" (NIL) is currently a significant topic within college athletics. From Caleb Williams' multi-million dollar contract with 'Beats by Dre' to a year's worth of free barbecue from a local establishment, these agreements are redefining the landscape of college sports.</p>
<h3>Changes in NIL Policies</h3>
<p>Prior to 2021, college athletes were prohibited from profiting from their name, image, or likeness, as dictated by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncaa.org/news/2021/6/30/ncaa-adopts-interim-name-image-and-likeness-policy.aspx">the NCAA</a>. Institutions could not sell merchandise featuring athletes' names, and any income generated from athletic programs did not benefit the players.</p>
<h3>Introduction of NIL</h3>
<p>In July 2021, the NIL framework was established, allowing student-athletes to earn money while still in college.</p>
<h3>Financial Disparities Among Universities</h3>
<p>Each university has a designated budget for NIL expenditures, which varies based on the institution. For instance, the financial capabilities of a Power Four University contrast sharply with those of a Mid-American Conference (MAC) school.</p>
<p>The "Power Four" includes the major conferences in the NCAA: Southeastern Conference (SEC), Big Ten, Big 12, and Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).</p>
<h3>Experiences of Coaches</h3>
<p>Ball State's football coach Mike Uremovich has experience at several mid-major as well as Power Four institutions. He has noticed significant differences regarding NIL opportunities, stating, “They just have more money.” He compared the resources available to Power Four schools versus MAC institutions.</p>
<h3>Impact on Athletics and Recruiting</h3>
<p>This financial disparity was evident in the last season of Ball State women's basketball, which had a noteworthy run before losing in the NCAA tournament to Ole Miss. The revenue generated by Ole Miss allows for a greater number of NIL opportunities, often leading to more talent on their roster.</p>
<p>As Ball State’s women’s basketball coach Brady Sallee articulated, the financial capabilities of Power Four schools greatly exceed those of mid-majors. He emphasized the importance of strategic resource allocation at institutions like Ball State compared to their larger counterparts.</p>
<h3>Recruiting Dynamics</h3>
<p>Recruiting has been a crucial aspect of college sports. Before NIL, traditional powerhouse programs had the upper hand in bringing talent onboard. The so-called "Blue Bloods" of college basketball, including Duke and Kentucky, consistently secured the best recruits due to their established reputations.</p>
<h3>Changing Recruitment Landscape</h3>
<p>Now, with the introduction of NIL, the recruiting process has evolved. Wealthy institutions are attracting top players regardless of their historical success. For mid-major schools like Ball State, the limited financial resources shape their recruiting strategies, as Uremovich reflects on adapting to the current landscape.</p>
<h3>Community Support and Future Developments</h3>
<p>Due to fewer third-party partnerships, Ball State's NIL initiatives tend to be more community-focused. Athletic director Jeff Mitchell emphasized the importance of community engagement for both student-athletes and the university.</p>
<p>Recent developments in NIL saw major changes following the House v. NCAA settlement in June 2025, totaling $2.8 billion. This alters how universities can financially support student-athletes, allowing for revenue sharing alongside traditional sponsorship deals.</p>
<p>Despite the financial challenges, Sallee maintains optimism about NIL strategies, believing that strategic use of resources can allow them to stay competitive against wealthier schools.</p>
<p><i>Contact Kyle Stout for inquiries at</i> <a target="_blank" href="mailto:[email protected]"><i>[email protected]</i></a><i> or on X at</i> <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/kylestoutdailyn"><i>kylestoutdailyn</i></a></p>
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