In this insightful episode, Dr. Karen Weaver sits down with Michael LeRoy, a labor and employment relations professor at the University of Illinois, and dive into the implications of NIL contracts and the potential for privatization of collegiate sports. LeRoy reveals surprising details about Big Ten and SEC NIL agreements, the potential sub-licensing of athlete rights, and the looming challenges surrounding Title IX compliance.

We also explore why university presidents likely resist athlete unionization, why that may unwittingly benefit the athletes, and how shifting financial models may force mid-major schools to reconsider their place in Division I athletics.

This thought-provoking discussion challenges listeners to rethink the direction of college sports and higher education.