The House v. NCAA class-action lawsuit is nearing a settlement that would significantly alter college sports. Judge Wilken expressed favor for the settlement, paving the way for its potential approval next week.
The settlement includes a revenue-sharing model where schools can distribute up to $20.5 million to athletes, starting July 1. It also proposes roster limits for various sports, though concerns remain regarding the impact on existing athletes.
Judge Wilken requested that current athletes be grandfathered in, requiring further negotiation.
The settlement establishes an NIL clearinghouse for deals exceeding $600, aimed at regulating pay-for-play. College sports figures recently lobbied Congress for a bill granting limited antitrust protection, vital for the NCAA's plan to succeed.
A proposed federal bill, the “Restore College Sports Act,” seeks to replace the NCAA with the American College Sports Association. While unlikely to pass soon, it highlights the potential for future instability and the possibility of major conferences forming independent entities.