NBC Sports Athlete Direct is a NIL community that connects student-athletes, advertisers and fans. We launched NBC Sports Athlete Direct to help student-athletes monetize their name, image and likeness.
Student-athlete development is a personal passion of mine as a former college football player at Stanford University and parent of a current college student-athlete. NIL programs done the right way are great earning and learning experiences for student-athletes.
Damon Phillips (right), his son Carter (middle) and wife Margo (left).
Photo courtesy of Georgetown Athletics
We began our journey into NIL by talking to chancellors, presidents, athletic directors, compliance officers, coaches and student-athletes to understand how NBC Sports could make a meaningful impact when it comes to Name, Image and Likeness.
We launched a pilot NIL program in May 2022 with student-athletes at Notre Dame, Temple and Vanderbilt. Student-athletes earned money by participating in social media campaigns sponsored by Peacock, Golf Now, Golf Pass and Reading Partners.
The insights that we gained have enabled us to develop an NIL program that is now open to student-athletes at all NCAA member schools. We have a strong value proposition that is based on these key principles:
#1 Providing access to a massive portfolio of trusted local and national advertisers
NBC Sports has existing relationships with thousands of reputable companies that run advertising campaigns across NBC Sports platforms.
#2 We won’t cut corners
We will do things the right way. NBC Sports is one of the most trusted brands in sports. We are actively monitoring state laws and NCAA and school guidelines.
#3 We want you to be more than an athlete
We are collaborating with CNBC, the world leader in business and financial news, and faculty at leading universities to provide resources on NIL best practices, small business tips and financial wellness to help you learn and grow.
#4 Inclusion is a core value of our NIL program
The NBC Sports Athlete Direct pilot program has been designed to provide opportunities to all student-athletes, regardless of which team you play on or your individual role on the team.
#5 Our NIL program is non-exclusive
You can still do other NIL deals that are not related to NBC Sports Athlete Direct.
We are looking forward to engaging with you. If you are interested in participating in NBC Sports Athlete Direct, please sign up here.