What is NIL and Why Should Athletes Care?
"NIL" might sound complicated, but it's actually your chance to get paid for being YOU. Let’s break down what it means and how it could change your future.
In the world of sports, three little letters — NIL — are changing everything for student-athletes.
NIL stands for Name, Image, and Likeness, and it means that athletes can now earn money from things like social media posts, brand partnerships, appearances, and even selling their own merch — all while still playing high school or college sports.
Before 2021, athletes couldn't make any money from their talents outside of scholarships. That changed when the NCAA updated its rules to allow college athletes to benefit from their NIL rights (NCAA.org). Now, even high school athletes in many states can start cashing in, too — as long as they follow the rules.
Why NIL Matters for Athletes
Here’s why you should care — even before you hit a college campus:
You Can Start Earning Early: Some high school athletes have signed NIL deals worth thousands of dollars before they even graduate. For example, Juju Watkins, the #1 ranked high school girls basketball player, signed major NIL deals while still in high school (On3.com).
It Builds Your Brand: NIL isn’t just about money. It’s about building your personal brand — your reputation, your style, and your story. A strong personal brand can lead to even bigger opportunities later, both on and off the field.
Colleges Are Watching: Coaches and recruiters now look at more than just your stats. They’re also checking out how you represent yourself online and how you might handle endorsements.
You Need to Protect Yourself: Not every deal is a good deal. NIL contracts are legal documents, and bad ones can hurt your eligibility or even your future. Knowing your rights early makes a huge difference.
Quick Facts About NIL for High Schoolers
NIL laws vary by state. Some states, like California and New York, allow high schoolers to do NIL deals. Others still have restrictions. Check your state’s athletic association rules (National Federation of State High School Associations).
You usually can't use your school’s name or logos without permission. Your NIL deals have to focus on you — not your team brand.
Always talk to a parent, guardian, or trusted advisor before signing anything. NIL money sounds exciting, but the fine print matters.
Final Thoughts
NIL is a huge opportunity, but it also comes with responsibilities. Athletes and families who start learning about NIL now — before the big offers come in — will be ready to make smarter moves that protect the athlete’s future.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone. We’re here to guide you through it step-by-step. Download our free NIL Starter Guide to begin building your NIL game plan today!
Sources:
NCAA Official NIL Policy Announcement
On3 NIL Deals News and Rankings
NFHS: NIL Resources for High School Athletes
