Is academic excellence less important than athletic excellence?
In August 2020, the NCAA allowed schools to “pay each of their athletes up to $5,980 per year as a reward for academic performance.” This amount is equal to the amount college athletes can receive for awards related to their athletic performance.
However, ESPN found that many schools have not made a commitment to pay these academic bonuses to their college athletes.
Sights and Sounds from Men’s March Madness - Open Practice
The sounds of basketball practice were in full swing at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. From the squeak of shoes to the calls by coaches to the lively bands practicing for the big day. Dickies Arena hosts March Madness for the first time when The Road to the Final Four® stops in Fort Worth March 17 & 19, 2022. Texas Christian University hosts the First and Second Rounds of the NCAA ® March Madness ® Tournament.
Athletes should monetize their name, image, and likeness cautiously
I have always been and remain to be 100% behind student athletes profiting from their name, image, and likeness. Throughout undergrad and law school, I was a staunch supporter of the athletes and have voiced very strong anti-NCAA sentiments. My views continue to be with the athletes in mind, however, they should be cautious of who to trust and how to build their brands.
March Madness, Women need not apply
By now you have probably seen the glaring discrepancies present at the NCAA tournaments between men’s and women’s facilities, food options, COVID-19 testing, swag bags, and more. The glaring disproportionate amenities and treatment has led to a social media frenzy with global outlets picking up the story.
Name, Image, & Likeness - NCAA & Amateurism
Amateurism has been an oft used battle cry for the NCAA when rules and regulations are questioned. The association consistently points to amateurism as their guiding principle. But if you break down the amateurism rules and what the schools are providing the athletes versus what they are potentially giving up, it seems lopsided in the NCAA’s favor.