Interviews

Justin Blanding:
Head Director of the Indy Magic Women’s Basketball Program
“I like that athletes can get compensated for their name, image, and likeness, but believe it should be regulated. The athletes are the driving force behind schools, especially in the power conferences. The schools make so much money off these kids that they deserve to be paid. I think now that colleges are able to pay them, that makes it more complicated, but overall, I think it is a good thing for the players.”

Abby Brown:
Senior at Noblesville High School
“I believe that it is important that when athletes create a name for themselves and bring a large fan base to a college, they be paid. However, I believe that NIL deals are becoming a bigger issue in college athletics because these athletes are being offered millions to play at a collegiate level. When athletes are offered these absurd amounts of money, I feel it makes the recruiting process unbalanced. I mean, who wouldn’t take the biggest offer they can get? This means that the biggest, richest schools can “buy” the best players, which I feel can create an unfair advantage compared to other colleges. Overall, NIL deals are great for athletes and a great way to entice them to attend a specific college. However, I also believe it can challenge the competitive balance between other schools.”

Kelvin Scott:
Head Coach and Coordinator at Indy Magic

“I love that athletes are being paid for the value they bring to an institution.  I also feel that some type of structure is needed regarding who and how they are paid.  I know they’ll never come up with a model on how monies are disbursed but I’m a strong believer in capital fairness meaning every player on the team should get something.”

Jim Naumovichc:
Commissioner of Great Valley Lakes Conference

Zach Sigmund: Long-time basketball trainer with a very skilled son who has potential for college choices
“Been training basketball athletes for the last 10 plus years. Mostly HS kids & younger. But have worked with several college level guys & girls who are involved in the NIL era.
Most players I know make little or nothing, but I know a couple who are making a significant amount. NIL makes it harder for incoming freshmen to get opportunities. Also, think NIL has turned college basketball into a job instead of an amateur experience.”