The NCAA shook up college sports in 2021 by allowing athletes to cash in on their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). That move really changed the game. Sure, there’s been plenty of pushback—just look at the recent roundtable with President Donald Trump and all the criticism—but let’s be honest, these deals can be a win-win for both players and their schools.
Hillsdale College, for example, could really benefit by nudging its athletes toward NIL deals. It’s not just about money; it’s about teaching self-governance and sparking that entrepreneurial fire. If they stick to the honor code and the college’s mission, Hillsdale athletes can protect what’s theirs and maybe even build something bigger for themselves.
The Evolution of NIL Deals
Since 2021, NIL deals have gotten way more common and accessible. Now, athletes can get paid for letting their school or outside companies use their image or name.
In 2025, the rules loosened up even further, letting schools themselves pay athletes directly. Still, some players, like Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, are sticking with third-party deals. That just shows how much you can earn from building your own brand—sometimes, maybe even more than what a school could offer.
Case Study: Caitlin Clark
Caitlin Clark, who played for the University of Iowa, is a perfect example of NIL’s potential. She’s not just a great player; she’s smart about promoting herself, too.
With NIL deals, Clark’s profile exploded. According to ESPN, women’s college basketball viewership shot up 37% in 2024, and a lot of that was thanks to her. She teamed up with brands like State Farm and Nike, which lifted her up and brought more attention to her team and the sport overall.
Hillsdale College’s Approach to NIL Deals
At Hillsdale, athletes are encouraged to get involved with NIL deals—as long as those deals fit the college’s values. They’re expected to protect their own interests and stick to the honor code.
The college’s athletics website spells it out: NIL deals are fine, just follow the guidelines. It sounds strict, but it’s really about helping students learn how to manage themselves and their opportunities.
Benefits for Athletes and Institutions
NIL deals open up all sorts of doors for athletes. They can make some money and get their name out there while they’re still in school.
Schools benefit, too. When athletes like Arch Manning or Caitlin Clark thrive, it brings more attention—and maybe even more applicants—to their programs. It’s a boost for everyone involved.
Encouraging Self-Governance Through NIL Deals
Hillsdale’s big on self-governance, and NIL deals fit right in with that philosophy. By letting athletes navigate contracts and endorsements, the college is giving them a crash course in business and responsibility.
These are skills that’ll stick with them, whether they go pro or not. Learning how to handle branding and negotiations is valuable far beyond the basketball court or football field.
Protecting Intellectual Property
Athletes deserve to control how their name and image get used—just like authors or musicians do with their work. NIL deals make that possible.
When schools use athletes’ likenesses for marketing, it’s only fair the athletes get a cut. That’s their contribution, and it shouldn’t go unnoticed or unpaid.
The Future of NIL Deals in College Sports
NIL deals are still evolving, and who knows where they’ll go next? The potential for athletes to earn real money is huge, and schools like Hillsdale can help guide them along the way.
Supporting NIL deals isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about giving students a shot at independence and growth. That’s something worth rooting for, don’t you think?
Conclusion
NIL deals have really shaken up college athletics. Athletes now have a shot at earning money from their skills and personality, which is wild compared to just a few years ago.
Hillsdale College could see some real advantages by getting its student-athletes involved in these opportunities. It’s a chance to encourage more independence and maybe even a bit of entrepreneurial thinking.
If athletes stick to the college’s honor code and mission, they can protect what’s theirs and build a personal brand. That’s not just good for them—it could boost the school’s reputation, too. Curious about how NIL deals tie into self-government? There’s more on that over at the Hillsdale Collegian.
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