I agree that we have to financially support this, but only because the idiots running this show have made it the norm for schools to use these collectives. But, this is a colossal screwup of NIL across the board by the NCAA that ultimately will end up strengthening the status quo, which is what the NCAA always does these days. This is what Saban, Coach K and the UNC AD have lobbied for since NIL came into being - that collectives that are carefully managed be used to compensate the athletes “fairly”. Do you reckon this is because they think this is what is best for their schools continuing their advantage?
The biggest, most successful schools with the strongest financial bases will raise the most money for these collectives. The NCAA said that NIL could not be offered as a recruiting incentive. But, of course that is exactly what is happening. The NCAA should have stood fast on saying that no coach or athletic department representative could offer any athlete any promise of pay for play. Any proof of the school offering pay incentives should have landed the school and coaches involved on serious probation. Any proof of an athlete negotiating pay for play directly with a coach or school should have led to their immediate and long term ineligibility.
Of course, that means alums and boosters would have had free reign to pay athletes whatever they are willing to pay. That would and did lead to some crazy deals. But, ultimately, the market would settle down except for exceptional players and just plain crazy fans and alums. With all Atlanta and Tech alums and companies with strong ties to Tech alums have to offer, I think Tech would have ultimately done well with individuals negotiating NIL deals of internships, advertising, social media influencing, etc.; better than a collective doling out money. And, our donations in the past paid for scholarships and operations. If we give to the Tech Way, how will we fund operations and scholarships for the full sports program?
I feel like we are using the playbook to respond to the new day brought about by NIL written by the power schools and athletic bureaucrats who fear losing their advantage and control. I would have preferred keeping them out of NIL as much as possible. Just my thought.
