The introduction of the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policy in college sports has totally changed the game. Athletes now have more freedom and financial opportunities than ever before.
But with all this new liberty, there are some real challenges lurking beneath the surface. The immediate allure of making money is hard to ignore, but it’s not the whole story.
Ben Hazel recently wrote about the deeper, often ignored consequences of the NIL era. He points out how athletes might be losing out on long-term relationships and that sense of community that used to define college athletics.
This blog digs into Hazel’s perspective, looking past the obvious perks of NIL and considering what players might be giving up in the process.
The Hidden Costs of NIL: Beyond the Immediate Gains
Sure, NIL lets athletes cash in on their skills and make their own choices. But it’s also brought in a bit of a revolving-door vibe to college sports.
Athletes now transfer schools more often, chasing better deals or more playing time. That might sound great in the moment, but it can really mess with their future prospects.
The Erosion of Lasting Relationships
College sports used to be about so much more than just the scoreboard. There was family, legacy, brotherhood, and those lifelong connections that made everything feel bigger than the game.
Players who stuck with one school became part of the community’s fabric. People remembered them, celebrated them—even years after their last game.
This kind of continuity built a support network that stuck with them into their professional lives. It’s not something you can just buy or replace.
Look at Darius Johnson at UCF. He’s built real relationships during his time there, and even if his sports career ended tomorrow, he’d still have a strong network behind him.
That sense of belonging? It’s huge, and honestly, it’s easy to overlook now that NIL is in play.
The Impact on Alumni Networks and Fan Loyalty
Alumni networks used to be a lifeline for athletes after college. They opened doors to jobs, mentorships, and all sorts of opportunities.
But if you’re always switching schools, you miss out on building those lasting bonds. It’s tough to feel like you belong anywhere.
Case Study: Chris Johnson
Take Chris Johnson. He’s played for multiple schools, maybe making more money along the way, but at what cost?
It’s likely been harder for him to form deep connections. When the games are over, who’s there to help him out?
Fans, donors, and boosters care about loyalty. They’re more likely to go to bat for athletes who stick around and show commitment to their school.
This emotional investment can turn into real support—job offers, business deals, mentorships. It’s not just about the money.
Why Staying Still Matters
Eventually, every athlete has to move on from sports. Those who stay with one program through the ups and downs usually have a stronger support system when that day comes.
Years of building relationships? That’s priceless, and honestly, it can lead to more opportunities than chasing quick cash.
The UCF Example
At UCF, they say, Once a Knight, Always a Knight. It’s more than just a slogan—it’s a real feeling of belonging that lasts a lifetime.
Former players come back, get involved, find jobs, start businesses, raise money, mentor the next generation, and just stay part of the community. That’s something you can’t get if you’re always on the move.
Relationships: A Different Kind of Currency
Honestly, the relationships you build in college can end up being worth way more than any NIL deal. They can open doors to business, coaching, media gigs—you name it.
Personal Testimony
Ben Hazel himself is proof of this. While earning his MBA at UCF and coaching men’s basketball, he built connections that changed his life.
His current job as a Pricing Resource Manager at a big tech company? That started with a relationship from his UCF days. Every broadcasting gig he’s landed came through the UCF alumni network.
Short-Term Gain Versus Long-Term Support
The old college sports model wasn’t perfect, but it did create deep bonds and a real sense of community. Players weren’t just stars—they became legends because they stuck around and became part of the program’s story.
Now, with NIL, things feel more temporary. That constant movement? It might just cost athletes more than they realize in the long run.
The Danger of Temporary Relationships
A generation of athletes might end up realizing, a bit too late, that they chased short-term wins at the expense of deeper, lasting relationships. Freedom’s great, but if you’re not careful, it can leave you standing alone when the cheering stops.
Every athlete eventually becomes a former athlete. When that day shows up—sooner than most expect—being remembered and having a real support network actually matters.
For more insights on the hidden costs of NIL and why lasting relationships still count in college sports, check out the full article by Ben Hazel on 247Sports.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
