Bass, Berry & Sims attorney Audrey Anderson joined Dr. Karen Weaver, host of the Trustees and Presidents – Opportunities and Challenges In Intercollegiate Athletics podcast, to discuss the legal challenges and implications for student athletes and campus employees related to name, image and likeness (NIL) rules for college athletics.
Audrey emphasized that those responsible for college athletics must be aware of any state law regulations and any athletic conferences parameters that pertain to NIL limitations. Currently, many of these rules are in flux, so it’s important for colleges and universities to be able to quickly adapt to the changing guidance. While certain aspects of NIL rules are fluid, Audrey recommends that one important detail to include in any plan is “telling student-athletes just what it is they need to report and how it is they should report it.” This clearly defined process will help student-athletes comply with rules.
Audrey also discussed the co-branding challenges and opportunities for universities when student-athletes request to use the university’s logo in endorsement deals.
The full episode, “Legal Considerations in the NIL Era: Guidance for Senior Leaders From a Former SEC General Counsel,” was released on July 19 by the Trustees and Presidents – Opportunities and Challenges In Intercollegiate Athletics podcast and is available online or wherever you get your podcast content.