Understanding NIL Deals vs. University-Sponsored Collective Deals

Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Deals

NIL deals involve individual agreements between student athletes and external entities or brands. Here, athletes leverage their personal brand, talents, and influence for endorsements, sponsorships, appearances, and social media engagements.

Key Characteristics of NIL Deals:

1. Personal Brand Empowerment: Student athletes can capitalize on their unique identities and build personal brands outside of university affiliations.

2. Direct Financial Gain: Athletes earn compensation based on their individual value, including endorsements, social media partnerships, and appearance fees.

3. Diverse Opportunities: NIL opens doors to a wide range of partnerships, from local businesses to national brands, across various industries.

Benefits for Student Athletes:

- Financial Independence: NIL deals provide athletes with income streams during their collegiate careers.

- Professional Development:*Engaging in NIL activities cultivates business acumen and networking skills.

- Expanded Exposure: Athletes gain exposure beyond sports, enhancing their marketability post-graduation.

University-Sponsored Collective Deals

These deals are structured through group licensing or sponsorship programs managed by universities or their athletic departments. They involve collective use of athletes' identities for merchandise, promotions, or sponsorships.

Key Characteristics of Collective Deals:

1. Uniform Representation: Athletes participate collectively, allowing for group-based branding and revenue generation.

2. Centralized Management: Universities coordinate and negotiate deals on behalf of athletes, streamlining partnerships.

3. Brand Synergy:** Collective agreements can enhance the visibility and prestige of university sports programs.

Benefits for Student Athletes:

-Unified Branding: Athletes benefit from joint exposure and marketing efforts, strengthening team identities.

- Simplified Process: Universities manage administrative tasks, enabling athletes to focus on their sport and academics.

- Team Recognition: Collective deals can elevate the reputation and recognition of the entire athletic program.

Comparing NIL Deals and University-Sponsored Collective Deals

1. Individual vs. Collective Approach:

   - NIL Deals:Emphasize personal branding and autonomy.

   - Collective Deals: Focus on group representation and shared benefits.

2. Financial Dynamics:

   - NIL Deals: Athletes receive compensation directly tied to their personal brand.

   - Collective Deals: Revenue is distributed among participating athletes as per collective agreements.

3. Administrative Responsibility:

   - NIL Deals: Athletes manage negotiations and partnerships independently.

   - Collective Deals: Universities handle coordination, contracts, and compliance.

4. Scope of Opportunities:

   - NIL Deals: Offer diverse, tailored opportunities reflecting athletes' interests and personas.

   - Collective Deals:Often centered around team-related promotions, merchandise, or sponsorships.

Conclusion

Both NIL deals and university-sponsored collective deals present distinct advantages for student athletes. NIL empowers individuals to monetize their personal brand, while collective deals foster teamwork and streamline administrative processes. Ultimately, the choice between these avenues depends on athletes' preferences, goals, and the overall landscape of collegiate athletics. As the NIL landscape evolves, athletes are poised to capitalize on these opportunities to shape their collegiate and professional journeys.

GO TO COLLEGE FOR "FREE"

 “Go to college for free!”

… #somethingtothinkabout 🤔 .

We are well aware that not all families, have “scholarship goals” some are simply interested in making their local team, some are looking for the reinforcement of various life intangibles, however there is a large percentage that are, in fact, chasing a “free education” via athletics.

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According to the NCAA (NCAA Recruiting Brochure) only 2% of ALL HS student-athletes will earn an athletic scholarship, yet families spend anywhere from $100-$2,000 per month on their student-athletes athletic development (team fees, watching/attending games, travel, training, etc) in hopes of securing an athletic scholarship.

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The ultimate question is “being well aware of the statistics, are the families (on average) that are heavily invested in “obtaining a scholarship” truly getting a real RETURN ON INVESTMENT?.”

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What are your thoughts?

Navigating Your Basketball Career: 7 Crucial Questions to Ask When Choosing an Agent in Europe

Embarking on a professional basketball career in Europe is a thrilling journey filled with opportunities, challenges, and pivotal decisions. One such decision, perhaps among the most critical, is selecting the right agent or agency to represent your interests and guide you through the complexities of the European basketball landscape. As you embark on this quest, it's essential to recognize the importance of asking the right questions during the interview process to ensure you find the perfect fit for your career aspirations. Here are seven crucial questions to consider:

• Understanding of European Basketball Landscape: Europe boasts a diverse array of basketball leagues, each with its unique dynamics and demands. It's imperative to assess your potential agent's understanding of this landscape. Do they possess in-depth knowledge of different leagues, teams, and playing styles? A well-informed agent can offer valuable insights and strategic guidance tailored to your specific goals.
  

• Experience and Track Record: An agent's experience and track record can speak volumes about their ability to navigate the intricate world of European basketball. Inquire about past successes, notable contracts negotiated, and their overall tenure in representing players in Europe. A seasoned agent with a proven track record is more likely to secure favorable opportunities for your career.

• Communication and Accessibility: Effective communication is the cornerstone of a successful agent-player relationship. Inquire about your prospective agent's communication style and accessibility. Are they responsive to inquiries and proactive in providing updates? Clear and open communication fosters trust and ensures that you're always in the loop regarding your career trajectory.
  

• Strategy and Approach: Negotiating contracts and securing opportunities requires a strategic approach tailored to your unique circumstances. Ask your potential agent about their negotiation strategies and how they plan to maximize your exposure and potential in European basketball. A well-defined strategy demonstrates foresight and commitment to your long-term success.
  

• Networking and Connections: Relationships are invaluable assets in the world of professional sports. A well-connected agent can open doors to lucrative opportunities and foster meaningful connections within the basketball community. Inquire about your agent's network of contacts, including coaches, team managers, and other influential figures. Strong connections can significantly enhance your career prospects.
  

• Personalized Representation: Every player has distinct needs, goals, and aspirations. A reputable agent understands the importance of personalized representation tailored to your individual circumstances. Ask how your potential agent plans to tailor their services to meet your specific needs and objectives. Personalized representation ensures that your agent is fully invested in your success.
  

• Contract Terms and Fees: Last but certainly not least, it's crucial to clarify the terms of representation and associated fees before committing to an agent. Inquire about commission rates, contractual obligations, and any additional fees involved. Understanding the financial aspects of the relationship upfront enables you to make an informed decision and avoid potential misunderstandings down the line.
  

In conclusion, selecting the right agent or agency to represent your interests in European basketball is a decision that warrants careful consideration. By asking the right questions during the interview process, you can gain valuable insights into a potential agent's experience, approach, and suitability for your career aspirations. Remember, your agent is not just a representative but a trusted partner in navigating the highs and lows of your professional journey. Choose wisely, and embark on your European basketball career with confidence.

Year FIVE: Mental Health -> Post Sport Anxiety

I’ve tried to write this over and over but was unsure of how to start, because where do I start? Within the past five years, I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, I’ve found myself, I’ve lost myself, then picked the pieces up and found myself again. But still, I went through all of that and don’t quite know who I’ll be when the ball stops bouncing in my collegiate career.

As my college career comes to an end I want to share my experience for not only myself, but for anyone willing to listen, and maybe anyone who needs it. 

Before coming to college I had mental health struggles and reached the lowest point in my life. A place I’d never imagined I’d get to. But honestly, I can say I’m grateful for it. If I didn’t go through that I wouldn’t have known that in the end, life gets better. Even when you think you can’t keep going, there is always something to live for. I remember where I was and what I was doing when I accepted my offer to attend AIC. I was lying on the turf at my old high school (Saint Anthony’s) watching a lacrosse practice and the first person I told my good news to was Summer Koepplin, someone I consider to be my second mother. I don’t exactly remember all my emotions that day, but I do remember feeling happy, grateful, and just filled with relief. I also had an underlying feeling that I had settled. I couldn’t help but wonder if this feeling was because everyone around me felt like I could go somewhere better or because I simply just felt that way. Little did I know at the time that the decision I made would be the best decision for ME. 

Year ONE. I like to say I had a good freshman year. I was a starter. I averaged around 11 points. I thought I had a decent freshman campaign. Unlike most, I don’t remember having much of a mental struggle at that time, other than you know, life, but other than that, I couldn’t complain. 

Year TWO. COV1D-19 happened and we all know how much of a struggle that was. I was fortunate enough to be able to play during that year, and that was the year we made the NCAA tournament. One thing I will always remember was the trip to Niagara Falls, but I will also remember being held scoreless and taking a loss when it mattered the most. That was hard for me, but I persisted nonetheless.

Year THREE. My Junior year was a low. I went through a breakup. I underperformed the entire season. I got COV1D. My back was in so much pain but I persisted. You never really understand how much a constant pain in your body can have such a huge effect on your mentality. There were some days I just couldn’t do it. I didn’t want to do it. Basketball just didn’t seem worth it. Back pain was and continues to be the hardest part for me in all this but I knew I only had limited time playing this sport so I continued to push through. Junior year was also the year I found Morgan’s Message. This program immediately caught my attention because I understood. I understood exactly what it feels like to mentally struggle doing something you love, and sometimes feel like it’s all just too much. And that’s when I knew, I wanted to be a part of this. I want to bring awareness to this, and let people know they aren’t alone.

Year FOUR. Honestly, I don’t remember much from senior year, shocking I know. I just remembered how much time flew because I was just a freshman. Every year had its struggles, so I know there were some. But I remember the biggest decision I had to make was do I want to do this again? One more year? I had the opportunity for one more year and everyone automatically assumed that I was going to take it, even my coach. Honestly, I didn’t want to. I felt like my body was worn out. I felt like it was just time, school as a whole just wasn’t my favorite place to be but I did it anyway. Looking back, I’m not sure if I did it for me or if I did it for everyone else, but it was another opportunity to put off the real world for a little bit longer.

Year FIVE. Year five ranks amongst the hardest year in my collegiate career. You would think that the last would be the easiest, but you are sadly mistaken. I’ve been a captain for the last two years and this year I wanted to give that title up more than ever. It’s not to say my teammates were bad, but navigating the team from a leader standpoint was just a stressor that I didn’t need or want. Our season started pretty well. We were 8-1, and I thought at that time, that we were never going to lose. Then Christmas break came, and then it went left. We’ve gone 6-12 ever since. The start of 2024 was such a difficult time for me. I wasn’t having fun playing the sport. I wasn’t having fun in life. And truly the only thing that kept me going was that I knew life gets better. Every loss that we had since Christmas made me so much more eager for my career to end. It wasn’t until a couple of weeks ago it really hit me. This will be it, you will miss it, and no matter how much I tried to convince myself I wanted it to be over I wouldn’t feel that way when the buzzer went off for the last time. 

I’ve silently struggled the past couple weeks because I felt guilty for wanting this to end so badly, that I wasn’t grateful for the opportunity I had right in front of me. For not having the fun I should be having. But I also thought to myself, who will I be when this is all over? For as long as I can remember, I’ve been Kayla the basketball player, so who will I be when that last buzzer goes off? I’ve sort of had an anxiety about what I will do when the real world hits. I hadn’t thought much about it in the past 4 years because I didn’t have to. But now I do.

Nonetheless, I am grateful. I am grateful to have had a place I could call home for the last five years. I am grateful for the relationships I’ve made here that will last a lifetime. I am grateful for the head coach I’ve had from the day I committed until the day it was all said and done. I’m grateful for my family, and every single person who supported me my entire ride. Every story has an end, but in life, every ending is a new beginning - 

#0 out.

By Kayla Robinson  |  IG: @kaylarobins0n (Originally written for Morgan's Message)

The 4 needed traits of a student-athlete needed to earn an opportunity for a college scholarship.

We are back with another “Elephant in the Room” segment we will discuss 4 traits that all athletes with the hopes of earning an opportunity for a college scholarship must have and they all begin with the letter D.

The first trait is determination. This means having a strong inner drive and motivation to achieve your goals, no matter what obstacles come your way. It's important to have a clear vision of your end goal and to work towards it relentlessly.

The second trait is discipline. This includes having a strict training schedule, maintaining a healthy diet, and making sacrifices for your sport. Without discipline, it's easy to become complacent and fall off track.

Next is dedication. This goes hand in hand with determination and discipline. It means being fully committed to your sport and putting in the time and effort needed to improve. This includes attending practices, games, and putting in extra work on your own.

Last but not least is drive. This refers to having a strong passion and love for your sport. Without drive, it can be difficult to stay motivated and push through the challenges that come with being an athlete.

So there you have it, determination, discipline, dedication, and drive - the 4 essential traits for any student-athlete hoping to earn a college scholarship. Keep in mind, although these 4 qualities are VERY important they do NOT supersede the ability to play as well as the various connections needed to obtain the goal.  However, they form the basis for success. In addition, possessing “The 4 D’s” will not guarantee a student-athlete scholarship but these qualities serve as a  prerequisite for turning a dream of a scholarship to become a reality.

#carryon

CAN A PLAYER GET BETTER WITH VERY LITTLE DISPOSABLE INCOME

 

Q. Submitted, by a possible trainee. "My parents have very little disposable income, but I want to get better. Is it possible?

A. “Yup, as a “training company”- we should not tell you, but fuk it. We, would suggest you contact a quality skills enhancer and "book" two or three sessions as opposed to five. In these sessions, (videotape) try to remember the various drills and the teaching points and head to your local park where you can apply what you have learned.  If the park is not available, perhaps in school during your gym class. However, (again) we agree money should not prohibit you or any player from expanding their game. Then I would say go play as much as possible and not only your friends. Go to other parks, gyms, different areas of your neighborhood and just play! Then go back home and work on your areas of concern.  BUT PLAYYY.

Keep in mind you will at some point need someone to provide the some tricks of trade, fix certain things, and of course teach, but as long as you stay committed and determined you can create a solid foundation.”

Thank you for reading this blog post, hopefully this and subsequent posts can help our community and others with tangible information needed to navigate through the maze of confusion.

5 reasons why a student-athlete can benefit from attending a prestigious prep school.

Here we are with another “Elephant in the Room” segment.  This blog features the assistant coach of NMH Mr. Jelani Williams. 

Here are Coach Williams’ five compelling reasons why a student-athlete can benefit in real time and in the future from attending a prestigious prep school:

• High-Level Athletics Programs:
• Real-Time Benefit: Access to top-notch coaching and advanced training facilities can significantly enhance your athletic skills and performance.
• Future Benefit: Exposure to elite competition and strong athletic programs can attract the attention of college recruiters, increasing the likelihood of securing athletic scholarships or opportunities to play at the collegiate level.
• Academic Rigor and College Preparation:
• Real-Time Benefit: Attending a prestigious prep school often means exposure to challenging academic curricula, preparing you for the academic demands of college.
• Future Benefit: A strong academic foundation enhances your college applications, making you a more attractive prospect to top-tier colleges and universities. It also sets the stage for success in college-level coursework.
• Network and Connections:
• Real-Time Benefit: Engaging with a diverse and accomplished peer group can foster valuable connections that may last a lifetime.
• Future Benefit: The alumni network of prestigious prep schools is often extensive and influential. Leveraging these connections can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and mentorship in your future career.
• Character Development and Leadership Skills:
• Real-Time Benefit: Participation in team sports and leadership programs within the prep school environment can foster personal growth, resilience, and leadership skills.
• Future Benefit: Colleges and employers highly value individuals with a strong character and leadership qualities. Experiences gained at a prep school can set you apart in college applications and in the professional world.
• College Guidance and Recruitment Support:
• Real-Time Benefit: Dedicated college counselors at prestigious prep schools can provide personalized guidance on the college selection and application process, helping you make informed decisions.
• Future Benefit: A well-established network and experienced college counselors can assist you in navigating the competitive college recruitment process, increasing your chances of securing spots on collegiate sports teams.

In conclusion, attending a prestigious prep school can provide student-athletes with a transformative educational experience that prepares them for success in college and beyond. From academic excellence and top-tier athletic programs to access to college resources, networking opportunities, and holistic personal growth, the benefits of attending a traditional prep school are manifold and enduring.