If you're a college athlete, landing a NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal might feel like scoring the winning goal. 

Thanks to platforms like The NIL Store, you can now take charge of your brand by creating and selling custom merchandise. Like Cooper Flagg of men’s basketball and Hailey Van Lith of women’s basketball, you can turn your name, image, and likeness into a winning opportunity.

But before you sign that contract, you need to be prepared. A NIL deal can open incredible doors for your athletic and financial future—or it could be a rookie mistake you’ll regret. 

Let’s break down what you need to know before signing that contract.

Understand the rules of the game. 

Before you even glance at the contract, make sure you know the rules. 

Each state and school has its own guidelines for NIL contracts. Some schools ban deals with certain industries, like gambling, alcohol, or tobacco. Plus, your NIL deal can’t conflict with NCAA rules. For instance, “pay-for-play” agreements—where you’re paid based on athletic performance—are a strict no-go. Violating these rules could jeopardize your eligibility to compete​​.

Also, you can’t use your school’s logos, team names, or facilities for commercial purposes without permission. If the contract involves promotions that might overlap with team activities, that could be a foul​.

Know your value.

When brands offer you a deal, they’re investing in your personal brand. But how do you know if the deal is worth it? The average NIL deal for a student-athlete ranges from $1,000 to $10,000, but your value depends on factors like your sport, social media following, and marketability​. 

Don’t leave money on the table by signing a lowball offer. Consult an expert—whether it’s a lawyer, agent, or mentor—to negotiate fair terms. Every clause is negotiable, so aim for a deal that reflects your worth​​.

Watch out for sneaky clauses.

Contracts are loaded with legal jargon, but some clauses could hurt you if you’re not careful. Here are some red flags to look for:

• Exclusivity Clauses: These can stop you from signing deals with competing brands. Make sure the terms don’t box you out of other opportunities​​.
• Duration and Usage Rights: Does the contract say how long the brand can use your name, image, or likeness? Are they asking for “worldwide” rights forever? Set boundaries to protect your future​.
• Moral Clauses: These allow brands to drop you if your behavior damages their reputation. Ensure these clauses are clear and don’t give them too much leeway​.
• Hidden Costs or Tax Implications: NIL earnings are taxable, and they might affect your financial aid package. Double-check how your deal fits into the bigger picture​.

Protect your rights.

Your NIL is your intellectual property. Some contracts might try to claim your right to publicity—essentially controlling your name and image even after the deal ends. Signing away too much could block future opportunities or leave you tied to a brand long after it stops benefiting you​​.

A lawyer can help ensure you don’t sign away more than you intended. Many schools even offer free legal resources for athletes, so take advantage of those services​.

Stay eligible. 

Always run your NIL deals by your school’s compliance office. Failing to disclose a deal or signing one that breaks your school’s policies could land you on the bench—or worse, off the team​​.

Think beyond the money.

It’s tempting to jump at the first NIL offer you get, but take a step back and think bigger. 

• Does this brand align with your values and personal goals? 
• Will endorsing this product build your credibility, or could it hurt your future? 

Remember, your NIL isn’t just a paycheck—it’s your personal brand and legacy. Make sure anything you put your name on is something you’re proud to stand behind.

Prepare for the unexpected.

What happens if you transfer schools or the brand goes out of business? Contracts should have clear terms for unexpected events, including force majeure clauses (covering things like natural disasters and medical emergencies). 

Also, make sure you’re not liable for issues beyond your control, like a product recall on something you endorsed​.

Get legal advice. 

No one expects you to be a contract expert—especially when you’re balancing all your classes, practices, and games. An attorney can explain the fine print and negotiate terms to protect your interests. 

Your Name, Your Brand, Your Rules

A NIL deal can be a game-changer, but only if you play it smart. Do your homework, lean on trusted advisors, and don’t rush into any decisions. Remember, this is your name, your image, and your future. Protect it like it’s the championship game. 

Ready to sign? Make sure you’ve got the best team in your corner. 

The NIL Store offers a comprehensive NIL store for athletes, providing a platform to create and sell custom merchandise and making it easier than ever to monetize your name, image, and likeness. Take control of your brand and start earning today!