A judge in Tennessee, USA, says the NCAA, a sports organization, can’t stop schools from using name, image, and likeness money to attract athletes. This means a name’s image and popularity can be used to make money for both sides. This made the boss of NCAA, Baker, worried. Baker thinks most schools, like historically black colleges and small sports colleges, will lose out. This is because they don’t have a lot of money or a big audience to make them popular.
In December, Baker had an idea. He suggested we should create a new level at Division I. The schools that earn the most money from sports can pay their athletes. Baker just wants to be sure that the new rule will not put other schools at a disadvantage. The NCAA now has to face many legal issues. It might lead to some athletes getting rights as employees.
Baker is excited by his talks with Congress. They agree that something should be done to protect and give athletes more ways to earn money. It is always probable that decisions might change because of what happens in court. But Baker is not hasty. He understands other pressing matters may delay the passing of such a bill.
