Ohio State athletics department launches new NIL group after NCAA house ruling

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Yesterday 16:30

NBC4i.com

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Ohio State's athletic department is creating a Name, Image, and Likeness group for student-athletes in response to a ruling that opens the door for colleges to pay athletes directly.

As college athletics continue to evolve this decade, Ohio State announced Monday the formation of the Buckeye Sports Group, which plans to work with athletes to enhance NIL opportunities. NIL rules have been observed since 2021, allowing for athletes to make money through endorsements and other revenue sources but not directly from the university.

The department said the Buckeye Sports Group will focus on three areas to help student-athletes earn more NIL support and opportunities. This group will help athletes negotiate and secure brand partnerships, provide marketing resources for social media campaigns and teach financial literacy.

"We remain committed to maintaining the student-athlete model, offering 36 intercollegiate sports and providing scholarships to all 36," said Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork, who is scheduled to address the university's plans in greater detail on Thursday.

Previously, separate NIL groups existed for Ohio State athletics in the form of THE Foundation and The 1870 Society, but the Buckeye Sports Group will consolidate these groups into one. Founding members of the other groups will be part of BSG in an "advisory capacity," Ohio State said.

A federal judge ruled Friday that the NCAA must pay $2.8 billion after settling a lawsuit brought on by former athletes. Schools will start by paying athletes an estimated $20.5 million per school, with all schools receiving the same amount.

The payout structure guidance from the settlement has 75% going to football, 15% going to basketball and the remaining 10% being split among other revenue-generating sports. Ultimately, however, it will be up to each school to decide on how to distribute that money.

Ohio State did not provide details on how revenue will be split.