2024 Murray State Athletics NIL Update

Racer Nation,

Given the rapid pace Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) is evolving, it is imperative we keep each of you informed as we have done regularly though our "From The Stables" letters and other communique.

On Friday, March 1, I gave a presentation to our Board of Regents with significant updates to the current NIL landscape and what we, as an institution, should anticipate. After the past week of meeting with conference and NCAA officials, I wanted to share these updates with each of you as we prepare for the seasons ahead.

Last week, a federal judge entered a preliminary injunction in an antitrust case brought by the Tennessee and Virginia attorneys general regarding the NCAA's NIL rules. The judge ordered, effective immediately, "the NCAA cannot prohibit any recruits or student-athletes from negotiating compensation for NIL with any third-party entity, including but not limited to boosters or a collective of boosters."

Following this injunction, we received a letter from Charlie Baker (NCAA President) informing us that "In response to this latest order, the Division I Board of Directors directed NCAA enforcement staff to pause and not begin investigations involving third-party participation in NIL-related activities. There will be no penalty for conduct that occurs consistent with the injunction while the injunction is in place."

Effective today, recruits (both high school and transfer) being recruited by Murray State will be allowed to negotiate with third parties, collectives (Blue and Gold Standard), boosters, fans, and companies before they commit to the Racers. During the recruiting process, recruits and their families can now negotiate and assess market values from various third-parties affiliated with schools they are considering.

Additionally, recruits are now eligible to sign contracts before committing to a school. These contracts must still be disclosed to an institution and include expected deliverables by a student-athlete in exchange for the agreed upon compensation.

NOW MORE THAN EVER, IT IS TIME FOR US TO RALLY BEHIND OUR MEN'S BASKETBALL PROGRAM AND INVEST IN THE CRITICAL RESOURCES, ESPECIALLY NIL, THAT IT WILL TAKE FOR US TO FIND THE SUCCESS THAT WE HAVE ALL COME TO EXPECT AT MURRAY STATE.

Below, you will find relevant information pertaining to the current NIL landscape along with ways that you can help support in this space.

WHAT TO KNOW:

NEW: Recruits (both high school and transfer) being recruited by Murray State will be allowed to negotiate with third parties, collectives (Blue and Gold Standard), boosters, fans, and companies before they commit to the Racers.
Prohibition on direct institutional payment for NIL. Meaning, institutions still may NOT pay students directly or indirectly. Murray State may NOT use any institutional funds (from ticket sales, donations, etc.) to compensate players for their name image, and likeness.
Prohibition on pay-for-play/payment for NIL. Meaning, students may NOT be compensated for their performance on the court/field of play.
The quid pro quo requirement. Meaning, students MUST do something in return for the compensation for their NIL.

WHERE YOU CAN HELP:

Contribute to the Blue and Gold Standard.
Connect with a Murray State student-athlete on partnership opportunities.
Purchase Brandr Licensed Apparel.
- Murray State leads the nation in this category.
- Percentage of proceeds goes directly to the Murray State student-athlete.

We must anticipate and be prepared to manage the relevant variables that will define the future of college basketball and the NCAA Tournament. The NIL landscape is rapidly changing and is subject to change in the coming months, so I will continue to communicate as frequently as required to grow our position in college basketball and continue our transition into the Missouri Valley Conference.

As always, we thank you for your unwavering support of Murray State Athletics! It is our commitment to create a first-class student-athletes experience and competitive programs that represent our University, our city, and our community in the best possible way. Together, our best days are ahead of us, Racer Nation!

Go Racers!
Nico Yantko Signature

Nico

Murray State University Athletics

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