NIL is keeping stars on campus

College basketball has shifted in a big way since the introduction of name, image, and llkeness (NIL) policies nearly four years ago.

As we mark National NIL Day, July 1, it’s worth looking at how college basketball programs that once lost elite talent to the NBA Draft or overseas leagues after just one or two seasons are holding onto those players or getting more skilled athletes into their programs. The early NBA jump is now mitigated because athletes can profit from off-the-court promotions while still in school. That change benefits individual players and provides stability to the sport itself (the transfer portal is a separate issue).

Before NIL, a top-tier college basketball player often faced a tough choice: stay in school and gain more experience but earn no income from their personal brand—or declare early for the draft and if they earn a roster spot, start earning a salary. For many, the choice was obvious.

The equation has changed dramatically. Athletes can now secure solid NIL deals – endorsements, appearances and merchandise sales – while continuing to build their skills in college.

This year, 82 players remained on the NBA Draft early entry list. That’s a 49 percent drop from Day 1 of the draft in 2024 (162).

Add to that, beginning next month, schools will be able to pay athletes directly following the House v. NCAA settlement. This new reality means players aren’t pressured to leap to the pros before they’re ready. They can stay for an additional year or two—sometimes even their entire four-year eligibility—and still earn their market value. That extra time in college allows players to mature physically, mentally and sharpen their game, which can lead to a higher draft position and lucrative career down the line.

Bottom Line -- What does NIL (and House) mean for college hoops?

• Stronger teams: Keeping star players means better games and more exciting seasons.

• Better player development: Athletes have more time to grow and get ready for the pros. Or learn if they’re even cut out for pro ball.

• Happier fans: Fans get to watch their favorite players for more than just one season.

In a nutshell, NIL continues to change the game. It gives players more control over their college careers and make college basketball more fun to watch because athletes are better developed and immersed in their programs. That’s reason enough for universities and coaches, as well as the NBA, to celebrate National NIL Day, isn’t it?

©2025 Gail Sideman, NIL Edge, gpublicity

Athletes, schools and business leaders are invited to educate, empower and engage with with purpose this week through July 1.

Gail Sideman created National NIL Day because July 1, 2021, marked a pivotal shift in the history of college athletics. That was the day athletes finally gained the same economic freedom as other scholarship students — the right to earn money without losing their eligibility to compete collegiately.

🗣️Join the conversation with thoughts and successful NIL stories by using hashtags #NationalNILDay and #NILImpact.