NC public high school athletes stand to profit from NIL

North Carolina high school athletes are now allowed to earn money from name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals after a written order was signed. This followed a ruling on Oct. 1 by Judge Graham Shirley, who found that the NC Board of Education broke Senate Bill 452 by prohibiting nearly all NIL deals, which went against their rule-making authority.

The ruling stops the enforcement of temporary rule ATHL-008, which banned various types of NIL agreements, including public appearances, endorsements, promotional activities, the sale of NFTs, athletic camps, clinics, and autograph signings. This ruling was part of a lawsuit filed by Rolanda Brandon, mother of top recruit Faizon Brandon, against the state board for these restrictions.

The lawsuit claimed that the temporary rules harmed the Brandons, stating a trading card company offered them financial security in exchange for signed memorabilia before Faizon's graduation. In response, Faizon expressed his gratitude on social media with “AGTG. ”

Mike Ingersoll, the Brandons’ lawyer, noted that the new permanent rule aligns with Senate Bill 452, while the temporary rule did not. State Board Chair Eric Davis mentioned the complexity of NIL and the need for careful guidance, explaining that they maintained the status quo due to time constraints.

Although athletes can now profit, the regulations for NIL are not yet clear. Proposed rules require students and parents to complete a free NIL course and share agreements with school officials. Additionally, athletes cannot reference their schools or appear in school uniforms when engaging in NIL deals, and they face restrictions during competitions.