The new NIL deal is for collegiate athletes allowing them to produce income through endorsements. The term NIL stands for Name, Image, Likeness, creating a space where athletes can profit off of their names and begin their own personal brand. 

The NIL deal changed the pathway of collegiate athletes as it is now a market, depending on the player colleges may miss out on commit’s if they are more money hungry rather than searching for playing time. This is often the case with athletes who come from a low income background, which is expected as they are striving for better opportunity. It also gives athletes the chance to stabilize and learn valuable financial decisions that will help them long after their college careers are over.

Negatives towards the NIL deal are mainly based on personal decisions made with and towards the deal. This money may lead to distraction for athletes as they have to focus on management and social media, all on top of more important things, such as academics and the sport they are playing, which is a lot for a newcoming freshman. Also, the thought of not enough money by the athlete may cause resentment and disengagement towards the school. 

I would say in conclusion that the NIL deal is more beneficial to athletes than negative as the negatives fall on the more personal side due to decisions made with or for the money. The money can also cause deterred drive due to distractions. Personally, I think it allows foreshadowing of the future lives athletes will live and it also benefits them financially to where they can just focus on playing ball.

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