Photo Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
College sports have long been a multi-billion dollar industry, with top athletes generating massive amounts of revenue for their universities and the NCAA. Yet, until recently, these athletes were barred from profiting off their own name, image, and likeness (NIL) – a rule that many argued was unfair and outdated.
But in 2021, the NCAA finally changed course, announcing that college athletes could now earn money from their NIL without jeopardizing their eligibility to play. This seismic shift has opened up new opportunities for athletes, allowing them to cash in on their popularity and personal brand in a way that was once impossible.
Interestingly enough, the USA’s top NIL earner isn’t even playing in college yet. LeBron James’ eldest son, Bronny James, already has plenty of deals with a variety of companies, that add up to him earning $7.2 million. The lion’s share of this amount stems from Bronny’s deals with Nike, Beats and PSD Underwear.
Overall NIL rank: 1
High school basketball NIL rank: 1
10-week high: $7,800,000
10-week low: $7,200,000
Total followers: 12.7 million
