What Are NIL Deals: What Do They Mean for High School Athletes?

In recent years, a groundbreaking shift has occurred in the world of amateur sports: student-athletes, including those in high school, can now legally profit from their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) in many U.S. states. This change is rewriting the rules of athletic opportunity, financial freedom, and branding, for teenagers.

Let’s break down what NIL deals are, why they matter for high school athletes, and how students can take full advantage of them.

What Are NIL Deals?

NIL stands for Name, Image, and Likeness—the rights an individual has to their own personal brand. When someone signs an NIL deal, they are giving a brand or company permission to use their name, image, or likeness for marketing purposes in exchange for compensation.

This can include:

• Endorsements on social media

• Sponsored appearances

• Merchandise deals

• Paid training sessions or camps

• Signing autographs

• Personal brand collaborations

Importantly, NIL is not the same as a salary or being paid to play. Athletes are not employees; they are being compensated for their public persona and influence.

Why NIL Matters for High School Athletes

Historically, student-athletes, especially those in high school, were not allowed to profit from their athletic fame without risking eligibility. Now, that’s changed. As of 2025, over 40 states allow high school students to sign NIL deals under certain rules.

Here’s what this means for student-athletes:

1. Financial Empowerment

NIL allows athletes to earn money legally while still in school. This can help cover travel costs, equipment, training fees, or even family expenses.

2. Entrepreneurial Opportunity

Many student-athletes are learning how to build their own brands, run businesses, and develop marketing skills—long before college or the pros.

3. College Recruiting Advantage

Building a brand early helps athletes stand out in a competitive recruiting landscape. College coaches often look for players who bring both talent and marketability.

40 States Where High School Students Can Profit from NIL

As of 2025, the following states allow high school athletes to engage in NIL deals, with specific guidelines set by their state athletic associations:

1. Alaska

2. Arizona

3. Arkansas

4. California

5. Colorado

6. Connecticut

7. District of Columbia

8. Florida

9. Georgia

10. Idaho

11. Illinois

12. Iowa

13. Kansas

14. Kentucky

15. Louisiana

16. Maine

17. Maryland

18. Massachusetts

19. Minnesota

20. Missouri

21. Nebraska

22. Nevada

23. New Hampshire

24. New Jersey

25. New Mexico

26. New York

27. North Carolina

28. North Dakota

29. Oklahoma

30. Oregon

31. Pennsylvania

32. Rhode Island

33. South Carolina

34. South Dakota

35. Tennessee

36. Utah

37. Vermont

38. Virginia

39. Washington

40. Wisconsin

How High School Athletes Can Leverage NIL Opportunities

Whether you’re a 5-star recruit or just starting to build a following, there are steps every student-athlete can take to benefit from NIL:

1. Build a Personal Brand

Start with who you are—your values, your sport, and your personality. Use social media (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube) to share your journey, training routines, game highlights, and even your interests off the field.

2. Stay Compliant with State & School Rules

Each state and high school athletic association has different NIL guidelines. It’s crucial to understand what’s allowed in your area to avoid jeopardizing eligibility.

3. Work with Trusted Advisors

Consider partnering with a family member, mentor, agent, or platform (like Sportsify) that understands NIL laws and can help you navigate contracts and protect your rights.

4. Be Smart with Partnerships

Only work with brands that align with your image. Don’t sacrifice your reputation for short-term money. Authenticity goes a long way.

5. Know Your Worth

Even if you don’t have millions of followers, local businesses love supporting hometown talent. NIL isn’t just for viral stars—it's for students who represent their communities with pride and professionalism.

Final Thoughts

NIL is opening doors for high school athletes in ways that were unimaginable a decade ago. It’s about more than money—it’s about visibility, voice, and ownership. If you’re a student-athlete, or a parent or coach of one, now is the time to learn how to navigate this new space and unlock its full potential.

Platforms like Sportsify are helping high school athletes connect with trusted agents, brands, and NIL opportunities in a safe, informed environment. Because every athlete—regardless of age—deserves the chance to benefit from their hard work and personal brand.