Manatt Counsel and Director Matthew Reece authored an article for Sports Business Journal covering the new name, image and likeness (NIL) laws slated to take effect on July 1 in six states that will allow college athletes to receive compensation for their NIL without forfeiting NCAA eligibility. Reece recognized this development as the start of huge branding opportunities for companies and athletes alike, but cautioned that the NIL regulatory framework is far from settled and contracts will need to be flexible to remain compliant. “NCAA rules cannot override state law, so as things currently stand, a state-compliant deal should mean that the student athlete maintains eligibility,” Reece wrote. “This could change if federal law that preempts state law and sets new standards is enacted.”
Read the article here.