The recent article by Ben Hazel on 247Sports explores the downside of the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era in college athletics. While NIL and the transfer portal have given athletes financial opportunities and more freedom, they have also brought hidden costs.
Many athletes are losing out on lasting relationships and a sense of belonging. Hazel notes that college athletics used to be about family, legacy, brotherhood, and lifelong connections.
The Hidden Costs of NIL and the Transfer Portal
In the age of NIL, athletes can monetize their talents and switch schools for better opportunities. However, this freedom comes with a downside.
Many are sacrificing the long-term benefits of building relationships within a single program. Hazel points out that staying at one school used to mean more than just playing sports.
The Value of Long-Term Commitment
Hazel argues that a player who spends four years at one school becomes part of that program’s identity. Fans watch him grow, remember his big moments, and value his loyalty.
This long-term commitment creates a sense of belonging that lasts beyond the athlete’s playing days. At UCF, the phrase *Once a Knight, Always a Knight* shows that a player’s value is bigger than their statistics.
Darius Johnson, a long-tenured Knight, has built genuine relationships within the program and community. Even if his career ended tomorrow, he would have people willing to help and mentor him.
This support network comes from his long-term commitment to the program. Such connections are often invaluable.
The Perils of Frequent Transfers
Athletes who transfer often may struggle to build lasting relationships and a sense of belonging. Hazel points to Chris Johnson, who might join his fourth team in four years.
While he may earn more NIL money now, the long-term consequences could be harmful. When his playing days are over, he may not have a strong support network.
Fans and donors are invested in loyalty. They are more likely to help someone they feel connected to over time.
A former player who stayed with one school will usually have a stronger support network than someone who moved frequently.
Relationships: A Different Kind of Currency
Hazel says that relationships built over years in one program are a different kind of currency. These connections can lead to business opportunities, coaching jobs, media roles, real estate partnerships, internships, and mentorship.
Hazel’s own job as a Pricing Resource Manager at a technology firm came from a relationship started at UCF. This shows the power of a strong network.
The Irony of Chasing NIL Checks
Many athletes chasing bigger NIL checks may lose access to something more valuable: lifelong support from their school and community. Eventually, every athlete becomes a former athlete, and being remembered matters.
The old college sports model created lasting bonds. Players became legends not just for talent, but for staying committed to their programs.
Now, everything often feels temporary. Athletes may find they maximized short-term gains but missed out on long-term relationships.
In the NIL era, players have more freedom, but freedom without roots can leave them isolated after their careers end.
The Importance of Being Remembered
In the end, every player has to answer one critical question: *When my career is over, what am I going to do next?* The relationships built over years within one program can provide valuable support and opportunities after an athlete’s playing days are over.
For more insights on the downside of NIL that no one talks about, you can read the full article by Ben Hazel on 247Sports by clicking here.
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