In recent years, we’ve seen dramatic changes in college basketball scenes due to two major factors. These factors include players’ Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights and the establishment of the transfer site. These changes spark questions about the future of college sports, leaving many stakeholders divided on how to handle this changing scene.
LeBron James‘ son, Bronny James, has successfully managed to bring in an astounding $7.2 million owing to his deals with companies like Nike, Beats by Dre, and PSD Underwear. And that too, while he was merely a high-schooler. On the other hand, Angel Reese, who led her team to an NCAA championship, bagged the biggest NIL deal for a woman at the collegiate level. Following her LSU victories and Sports Illustrated swimsuit debut, she was left with a staggering NIL deal of $ 1.4 million. However, most recently, a 2x NBA All-Star didn’t seem too happy with the same.
2X NBA All-Star sounds off against NCAA
The NCAA’s Name-Image-Likeness (NIL) deal has flipped the script for college student-athletes. These deals have turned student-athletes into brand ambassadors and influencers; transforming their brands into potential goldmines. From slam dunks to astute endorsements, Bronny James and Angel Reese are just two student-athletes who profit from this. It’s a win-win situation that’s changing the game’s rules.
However, 2x NBA All-Star, Jerry Stackhouse, does not seem to be a huge fan of NIL. And during a recent episode of ‘No Chill with Gilbert Arenas’, he lashed out against the NCAA.
Stackhouse believed that the landscape with NIL benefits and the transfer portal is still quite uncertain. He feels the model used by the NBA might be a friendly approach for college athletes as well. In this model, the players’ interests collectively bargain. This would give players representation and help balance the power dynamics.
While recognizing the potential benefits for student-athletes, the coach emphasized the existing “Wild West” climate surrounding NIL remuneration. Rogue agents, misinformation, and unscrupulous practices have proliferated. This leaves athletes perplexed as they navigate their choices. Furthermore, talent might also leave their team due to the enticement of higher offers. As teams attempt to maintain their competitive advantage, the battle for talent retention becomes a concern.
He said, “It’s just a sh*t show right now. But I think ultimately it’ll get settled down“.
Despite his comments, Bronny James and Angel Reese continue making money. However, Bronny James’ future still hangs in the air.
Will Bronny James play professional basketball again?
Bronny James’ future as a USC Trojans is in jeopardy following a dramatic cardiac arrest occurrence during a summer workout session. The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder to athletes of all ages about their bodies’ hidden intricacies. Although Bronny has stabilized, the basketball community is eagerly awaiting word on his future actions.
Notably, Dr. Brian Sutterer expressed worries about James returning to the court without complete knowledge of the reason for his cardiac episode. Dr. Sutterer is a respected expert on the health of professional athletes,
He said, “If they don’t find an exact cause and you don’t really know what happened. You have to have that discussion of what exactly are the risks of going back out there and playing. Extremely serious situation we’re dealing with; then legitimately something that affects the rest of his career depending on what we discover and depending on what they have to do about it”.
Bronny James has been working relentlessly to chase greatness. At the same time, navigating the tremendous pressure to follow in his father’s footsteps and secure a seat in the NBA. However, what’s more important now is his recovery.
