As NIL evolved, what were two popular ways athletes earned money through NIL?
As Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights evolved, two popular ways athletes earned money included:
Endorsement Deals and Sponsorships: Athletes partnered with brands to promote products or services. These deals often involved social media posts, appearances, and other promotional activities. Companies sought athletes with strong personal brands and social media followings to reach target audiences.
Merchandising and Personal Branding: Athletes created and sold their own merchandise, such as clothing lines, autographed memorabilia, or personalized products. They leveraged their personal brand to connect with fans and generate revenue through direct sales or collaborations with established brands.
These avenues allowed athletes to capitalize on their popularity and entrepreneurial spirit while maintaining their amateur status in collegiate sports.