College Sports in a New Money Game

The shift to a free‑market system has reshaped college sports.
Athletes can now transfer at will and sign name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, giving larger programs a competitive edge.

Transfer Portal Chaos

• Unlimited movement: Players can enter the portal whenever they wish, as long as eligibility remains.
• Case in point: Washington State lost its top quarterback to Miami after a $2 million NIL offer. He later became the first pick in the NFL draft.

The NIL Revolution

• New financial ceiling: House v. NCAA allows schools to pay up to $20.5 million a year, but funds must come from donors.
• WSU’s response: The “Cougar Collective” and a new “Cougar Athletic Fund” funnel donations into player contracts.
• Challenge: WSU’s academic focus limits its ability to raise large athletic budgets compared to alumni‑rich rivals.

Recruiting in the Age of Money

• Coaches now pitch big money potential alongside academic programs.
• The sport’s image shifts from teamwork to a business‑style competition.

A Call for Talent Development

• Experts advise: Washington State should focus on nurturing talent rather than buying it.
• If the university can prove that its players will earn high salaries later, it may attract athletes willing to stay.

Bottom line: The free‑market environment makes it difficult for smaller schools like Washington State to retain their best players.