Back in 2011, college athletes could not profit from their names, images, or likeness. However, Anthony Davis made a cool $10,000 from his!
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In July of 2021, the NCAA was forced to introduce the NIL rule, on the order of the Supreme Court. The rule allows college athletes to make money from their names, images, and their likenesses.
However, prior to the implementation of the NIL rule, the NCAA had sole proprietorship of athletes’ rights. As such, numerous cases popped up over the years, as many athletes violated the previous regime.
Over the years, numerous stars have been singled out for these reasons. Including some big names like Anthony Davis and Zion Williamson among others.
It certainly was scandalous at the time, but in hindsight, it seems more unfair to the athletes. Especially to AD and his family, who were struggling at the time.
Former Nike and Adidas executive claims Anthony Davis received $10,000 for his likeness back when he was playing for Kentucky
In 2011, The Brow was a dominant forward, leading the Kentucky Wildcats to NCAA glory. Shortly afterward, he would go first overall to the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA draft.
However, prior to his move to the NBA, AD and his family were in a tight spot. His father had lost his job and they were in desperate need of money. In steps, Merl Code, a former Nike, and Adidas executive helped broker a t-shirt deal for Davis.
Code claims he approached a friend of his, who put him in touch with an apparel shop that wanted to use Anthony Davis’ iconic unibrow on a t-shirt. The deal was made, and as a result, the family received a $10,000 payment!
Code has stated that he has no regrets about making the payment, stating the Davis family deserved it. Moreover, he feels ‘vindicated’ following the implementation of the NIL rule.
