In San Francisco, a significant moment in college sports could be on the horizon as U.S. District Judge Claudia Wilken prepares to decide on a proposed multibillion-dollar settlement aimed at resolving several antitrust lawsuits against the NCAA. This case could fundamentally reshape how college athletics operates, particularly concerning how athletes are compensated.
The settlement, which has drawn attention from all corners of the college sports landscape, is facing backlash from certain athlete groups who argue that it fails to sufficiently compensate student-athletes and could disproportionately benefit male athletes over female athletes. Attorneys for the NCAA and major college conferences argue that the proposed settlement actually provides substantial compensation, amounting to $1.98 billion in name, image, and likeness (NIL) claims and an additional $600 million for other compensation claims.
To counter the objections, attorney Rakesh Kilaru, representing the NCAA, described the opposing arguments as “nonsensical” and accused the objectors of neglecting the complexities and risks associated with litigation. He emphasized that most NCAA programs are financially strained, with nearly 97% of Division I programs losing money when excluding university subsidies.
Attorney Steve Berman, representing the objecting athletes, criticized the portrayal of the settlement, asserting that it does not eliminate rights related to future antitrust claims or gender discrimination issues. He argued that the proposed compensation is comparable to what athletes might receive in a lengthy trial, which involves uncertainty.
Judge Wilken is scheduled to hear arguments regarding the settlement on September 5. It is common for judges in these types of cases to grant preliminary approval, but this does not guarantee final approval. If preliminary approval is granted, a fairness hearing will follow, allowing objectors the opportunity to present their cases. Athletes can also choose to opt out and pursue their lawsuits individually.
There are concerns that the settlement could face further legal challenges, as an objecting university has already taken steps to seek intervention from higher courts. Moreover, the possibility exists for additional lawsuits to emerge, even if this settlement is approved.
The road ahead remains uncertain, and for now, the focus remains on Judge Wilken’s decision, which could be a transformative moment for college sports.
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
