The NCAA recently changed its rules to permit student-athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness ("NIL"), including to promote commercial businesses. The following FAQ should assist businesses in understanding the requirements to compensate a K-State student-athlete for NIL activities.
NIL refers to a student-athlete earning compensation in exchange for the use their name or picture. Previously, the NCAA prohibited student-athletes from earning compensation in this manner (ex. A student-athlete couldn't appear in local car dealership commercial). As of July 1, 2021, the NCAA permits a student-athlete to earn compensation in exchange for participating in NIL activities. NIL activities may include, but are not limited to: social media endorsements, commercials, appearances, autograph signings, and other business activities.
No. Businesses interested in hiring a Wildcat student-athlete for NIL purposes should contact the student-athlete directly.
Yes, as long as a University/Athletics staff member is not involved in arranging for the promotion, a student-athlete may be paid to promote your business. Student-athletes are required to disclose all NIL activities to the Athletics via Team Works 7 days before they occur.
Yes, in-kind compensation is permissible, provided the student-athlete has completed the promotion and disclosed the agreement to Athletics. It is still not permissible to provide payment of any kind to a student-athlete for work not performed.
No. Any compensation provided as an inducement to attend K-State is still not permissible.
Yes. During official team activities, student-athletes cannot participate in NIL activities nor can they use any NIL-deal product/service that conflicts with the University's Code of Conduct or team rules. Additionally, student-athletes (or the company involved in the promotion) cannot use the University’s protected trademarks without prior approval and/or proper licensing. Content created by the University (e.g., game photos or video) also cannot be used for commercial purposes without prior approval or proper licensing.
When dealing with NCAA rules and student-athlete eligibility, there are many caveats and exceptions. It is recommended all businesses contact the K-State Athletics compliance office or K-State Sports Properties to review any questions related to NIL opportunities prior to the activity.