By Sydney Bailey, Keane Blackbourne, and Carson Hilbert

Name, Image, and Likeness brought along many benefits for student-athletes individually. In 2021, the Supreme Court made a landmark decision regarding NIL deals in the case National Collegiate Athletic Association v. Alston. This case entirely changed the game for college athletes as they were now allowed to make profit on their name, image, and likeness due to the opinion of the Court. The benefits that this case has on college athletes are plentiful, as they are now able to see money flowing straight into their pockets from NIL deals. Freshman Volleyball player at The Ohio State University, Olivia Hasbrook, shares her insight on how the new NIL ruling has positively impacted her as an individual. 

Hasbrook quickly settled an NIL deal with Ozuna Fresh, an air freshening company, quickly following her arrival at Ohio State. Hasbrook states, “Ozuna Fresh has given me several free products that I use in my dorm and locker room that are really nice to have.” Aside from the products she’s received, Hasbrook addresses how her NIL deal has benefitted her financially as she explained, “Ozuna Fresh has given me a lot of opportunities for money with paid media day opportunities as well as connections with other athletes.” The NIL ruling has made several athletes’ lives easier as they no longer have to worry about financials while being an ‘unemployed’ college athlete.  

NIL has helped many athletes to financially benefit off themselves. Dr. Clavio, a professor for IU and Director of the National Sports Journalism center, spoke about what NIL is and what it’s doing for athletes. NIL especially has given light to women’s sports with athletes like Caitlin Clark, Livvy Dunne, and Angel Reese have made a huge pathway for women colligate athletes. 

“NIL has opened a door for women sports,” says Dr. Clavio, “It’s easier to view college athletes compared to five years ago.” Women’s sports due to NIL has made viewers more interested in women’s sports. Especially when rising stars in women’s college basketball such as Paige Bueckers and Flau’jae Johnson now starting to rise it could raise the standard even more for women’s sports.  

Also, with the new settlement college athletes will receive more money after a judge granted a $2.78 billion legal settlement to those athletes. With this NCAA schools are going to be limited to spend around 23 million each year with the money of the cap rising each year. The schools will be restricted to pay around 22% of media revenue, ticket revenue, and sponsorships revenue with student athletes. This settlement means that athletes could get paid even more money than what they have been before if the cap gets higher and higher. 

“There’s no legal basis for the amount the athlete can be paid,” says Dr. Clavio. With this information athletes could potentially paid millions or even and could be paid similar to what professional athletes are. This could be potentially very tricky for schools but positive for athletes as they don’t have to worry to much about their future careers if the athletes are being paid really good money. 

Several strangers around Indiana University’s campus are asked about what they feel the benefits to NIL are. Their answers had great variety but shared a few common themes

With the turn in all these laws surrounding collegiate athletes being paid, many of them are now making upwards of hundreds of thousands of dollars for their representation of the universities as high-level athletes. While we can clearly see the benefit that this had for the student-athletes, it is also fair to say that it can be just as beneficial for the universities that are touting their big name athletes. Especially when there are big name athletes in smaller sports. Take Livvy Dunne for example. She is and was a very popular internet personality, but competes in gymnastics, a sport that isn’t terribly popular outside of the Olympics. However, LSU’s arena was nearly sold out in every one of their matches for the 2024 season. According to Voltedu.com, “With an online following in the seven figures, who is to say how big of an impact she had on ticket sales.” Since the schools themselves don’t have to pay the athletes, this comes as an advantage for both parties. Other athletes will also be more interested after seeing the opportunities that are available to them, raising the advantage even more by offering the chance for more talent or big names to represent their university.

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By Ashley Libertoff, Ben Jaffe, Aidan Murphy

Pads crack and the sound of players running can be heard all throughout the football facility. As the sun bakes down onto the practice fields there is a group of athletes that may go unnoticed. This group is known as the preferred walk-on group. While football teams do give out large amounts of scholarships, there are players that may have just missed the cut. This group is given a designation of preferred walk-on. They have a space on the team however, they do not get a scholarship. While all of these players may not have the same scholarship opportunities, they do still fight for one form compensation, NIL.

NIL is a new set of rules within college athletics that allows athletes to get paid for their personal brand. These rules have changed the way athletes are recruited, choose schools, and even play on the field. Often the NIL money that schools and collectives give out goes to the high market sports and within that, the best players often get more money.

With the growth of NIL there has been large amounts of coverage on what this does to the “stars” of the team. However, what goes unnoticed is the effect that these rulings have on this preferred walk-on group. These athletes often are backups and may go unknown but they often make up the majority of the team.

Reece Lozano is one of these preferred walk-ons for the Indiana University football team. When asked about the NIL opportunities he receives he said “I’ve been able to partner with local businesses for social media promotions, which has not only helped me financially but also boosted my personal brand.” Lozano talked about the difference between not only the size of the deals given to him, but also the difficulties that are associated with trying to get NIL deals as a preferred walk-on. We asked Lozano about these difficulties and he responded saying “There is a steep learning curve in understanding contracts and following NCAA and school regulations.” This isn’t an issue that only affects preferred walk-ons at the large schools such as Indiana University, this is an issue for athletes at all levels and in all sports.

In a press conference style discussion with Dr Galen Clavio he said “These athletes can no longer be referred to as simply student athletes, their title now is way more complex.” The discussion of athletes no longer having the title of student athletes is a large statement. For preferred walk-on athletes academics is a large part of being a college athlete. Lozano talked about the balance of not only school and athletics, but also NIL saying “Time management is crucial. I maintain a strict schedule and prioritize my tasks. Utilizing campus resources like tutoring and academic advising helps me stay on track academically, while coordinating closely with my coaches helps me meet my athletic commitments.” These new elements have turned athletes into so much more than just student athletes. In many ways they have become professionals, needing teams around them and assistance with media and NIL opportunities.

While NIL can have large benefits the toll that it can take on these preferred walk-ons is very real. This means that athletes have to prioritize the deals that are best for them. Especially in the position of the preferred walk-on, you need to make sure these deals are rewarding beyond just the financials. Lozano discussed the deals he found most beneficial saying, “Local endorsements and social media promotions have been the most beneficial for me. These deals are more accessible and manageable, and they help build relationships within the community. Hosting camps and training sessions has also been rewarding both financially and personally.”

With NIL being ever changing, there are many possibilities for where it can go in the future. “With new settlements, schools will be given more structure in their NIL payments. Each school will be given a set amount to pay out to their players,” said Dr Clavio. With the state NIL is in right now it is clear that more restrictions will be put into place to make sure that all athletes are paid out fairly by the schools. “I believe NIL opportunities will continue to expand, with more structured support from schools and athletic programs. We might see more guidelines and resources to help athletes work through the complications of NIL deals,” said Lozano when asked about the future of NIL. College athletics is ever changing and at its core the players come first. As NIL continues to progress and grow it can only help players, especially the preferred walk-ons.

Bloomington residents touch on NIL, giving their opinions on the amount these athletes are getting paid

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Introducing the All New Apple Watch

Media Contacts
Natalie Byer
Alex Gastineau
Nick Milentis

Apple is pleased and beyond thrilled to reveal the first ever apple watch, an innovative, cutting-edge development that will surely alter the technological world. The apple watch includes a plethora of features, combining the attributes of an iPhone with a simple, practical wristwatch wearable for all occasions. Say goodbye to misplacing your phone or other apple devices, because the apple watch is guaranteed to follow you everywhere you go! The perks are infinite.

To start, the apple watch far surpasses the benefits and features provided by an average time-telling device. Instead, it functions as a fully integrated part of the iPhone design, enabling customers to remain in-the-know, fully connected, and to track their daily activity. All features accessible via the iPhone, are just as easy to view on the watch. Users will no longer have to reach for their phone when making a call, scrolling their messages, checking the news, or for basically anything apple related. Designed carefully with detail and practicality in mind, the watch’s incredible Retina display ensures that scrolling, zooming, tapping, and navigating the apple watch is easier than ever thought possible. Using this device is meant to make contacting others and life in general more efficient in all aspects. Just take a peek down at your wrist and suddenly, you will be up to date. Phone not around? Notifications will still make it in your line of view regardless of whatever activity you may be engaging in.

One of the main purposes for this innovation can be credited to the nation-wide need for improved fitness tracking. Apple encourages users to engage in healthy, active, and fulfilling lifestyles. With features that enable consumers to track their steps, miles, heart rates, and monitor workouts, setting personal fitness goals is no longer a hassle. The apple watch also prohibits slacking, reminding and encouraging users to set and reach their exercise goals throughout each day. It’s many apps, one of them being “Activity”  pinpoint in what areas (move, exercise, and stand) need to be improved with your personal attributes kept in mind. As a company, Apple recognizes and values the importance of maintaining a balanced and fitness-centered daily routine. There is no excuse to remain lethargic and/or fail to make use of these remarkable features with motivation right on your wrist.

As mentioned before, navigating the apple watch is impossibly easy. Worried about your fingers getting in the way or the screen being too small? The Digital Crown is a small spherical twisting button located on the side of the watch. This piece allows users to perform basic functions on the apple watch, thus eliminating the need to use your fingers to tap and scroll. This way, the screen is clearly visible, and the size doesn’t prohibit users from viewing all of its amazing components. Not to mention, the watches two different sizes also allow for some leeway when considering what fits best for you. The style and looks of the apple watch are modern, fashionable, and neutral for all personalities.

Apple is immensely prideful of our distinguishable, unique, and widely used products that have positively impacted the technological world. There is no question that the apple watch is sure to be one of those products and will change the lives of millions. Order your apple watch ahead today and reap the benefits. The apple watch is guaranteed to become an absolute staple in the lives of Apple customers.

Tim Cook explains a few important features of the new apple watch. These features include using the dial on the side of the watch.

Tim Cook plays a video of the sleek design of the apple watch 1. This video shows a close up of the watches design and some features the watch has.

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Media Contacts
Sloane Killinger(writer)
Catherine Hattery(Photographer)
Sydney Bailey(Editor)

Apple Reveals its First Ever Digital Watch 

Cupertino, California (Sept. 9, 2014)- Apple CEO, Tim Cook, launched the Apple Watch at the 2014 Spring Forward Event, representing a new era of connectivity and wearable technology.

As previously seen by Apple, they are not quite finished yet and still have “One More Thing”. With constant innovation and creation of new populating digital products, there has been a skyrocketing advancement in the world of technology over the last 13 years. As Cook confidently took the stage Tuesday night, to announce the launch of the Apple Watch, he carried himself with poise in jeans and a navy-blue button up. Slow spoken with a great deal of certainty, Cook convinced his audience of the customizable capabilities and personal experiences this new product would provide.

The well-designed car like promo video and live demo by Kevin Lynch, presented the functionality of this watch. Demonstrating the innovative new features of the Apple watch on his wrist, the crowd was ecstatic to see such intimacy that a device like this could enable.

VP of Apple design, Johhny Ive, narrated the promotional video of the digital watch. He described the singularity and individuality of design, reedifying what it means to wear a watch. Gone are the days in which watches can only tell time, now they could tell your blood pressure, heart rate, and communicate with your friends and family. The level and sheer scale of innovation had not been seen in the industry since the release of the first iPhone. Cook then followed with insightful information on the extra elements of functionality that this watch would provide. With the most important feature being the ‘digital crown’.

The small dial on the side of the watch has magnifying capabilities to zoom in and out, making this product more than just a miniature iPhone. It has a ‘glances’ feature to display quick information as well. Whereas all watches that came before had zero technological applications, the Apple watch combined the timeless elegance of Rolex watches with the new age technological breakthroughs of the 21st.

The idea behind this product was to create more personalization in the digital world. Fortunately, Apple has done just that, and seemingly, through a single chip. By installing a tactic engine into the watch, touch and force senses have been enabled. Your watch will notify you through digital touch communication. The feeling of one’s own heartbeat has never been so easily shared between two people. “For the first time, and with great intention, we’ve designed not only what you see, but also what you hear and feel.” said Johnny Ive.

This new line of technology also appeals to a wide variety of people, with a total of three different Apple Watch models: the Apple Watch, the Apple Watch Sport, and the Apple Watch Edition. In addition to the three different watch models, there are an array of customizable bands as well. Each focusing on either quality, comfort, fashion, or most importantly, fitness. As explained in his speech, “The Apple Watch will help a lot of people live a better day and a healthier life.” said Cook. Counting your steps, accomplishing your activity goals, and keeping up with your heart rate, are just a few features that this device will provide.

Finally, Cook revealed the cost and release date of this exciting new product. With prices starting at $349, these striking digital watches will officially launch early 2015. These exciting new features will have Apple lovers all over this product. As this event concluded, the audience reveled in excitement. As Cook happily thanked all those who made the apple watch possible, he proudly waved goodbye to his audience, leaving them with an amazing hands-on experience unlike anything they have ever seen before. Or rather, “A new innovative, intimate way to communicate directly from your wrist.” said Cook.

Fitness promo video for apple watch plays for the audience. This technological breakthrough assists people in several different facets of exercise. 

Apple watch intro video finishes playing for audience and is received well. Tim cook’s apparent emotion reflected into the audience and was met with roaring applause and a standing ovation.

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Media Contacts
Riley Leichliter
Courtney Holland
Ben Jaffe

CUPERTINO, California (Sept 9, 2014), – Tim Cook, CEO of Apple made an announcement in Cupertino, California on Tuesday unveiling the first generation of Apple Watches.

Cook followed a prior unveiling by saying “But we’re not quite finished yet, we have one more thing.” He claims that this new product will change the course of Apple forever. Cook then played a video engaging the audience and showcasing this new revolutionary device – the Apple Watch. When Cook reappeared he took in the standing ovation and began to describe the features of the watch such as the ability to make calls, track health, and even play music.

The Apple Watch is a very large step for Apple. Up until now, Apple has been heavily known for its production of phones and computers, where they have been at the forefront of innovation and at the top of the industry. The Apple Watch provides a new and outstanding leap for the company as this continues its growth in the personal device industry. 

One of the physical elements of the watch is what Cook calls the “digital crown.” “If you have a list you can scroll through it, and all this without blocking the screen,” Cook said, “and if you press it, it returns to the home screen just as expected.” The Apple team has put immense thought into the design of the watch. Every aspect is designed to enhance the experience for the user.

Even the watch bands themselves are fully customizable. “They are meant to be worn every day,” said Cook. They have many options for these from more traditional metal, link bands to athletic-style bands that use magnets to fit to the wrist.

The watch has many digital features as well, but the ones that sit at the forefront of the device are the ability to track health, make calls, and search the internet. Starting with the ability to track health, the watch will be able to track everything from steps to heart rate, to how sedentary you are throughout the day. “It is a comprehensive health and fitness device,” said Cook. This feature can sync to the health app on your phone and provide the user with dynamic reports about their day-to-day lifestyle. 

The ability to make calls and even text is also a large innovation for the watch. Cook called the way the device allows users to contact one another a “New intimate way to connect, directly from your wrist.” This is one of the features that distinguishes the watch from other watches and fitness trackers on the market. “The watch works seamlessly with the iPhone,” Cook said. The watch can sync up to your contacts, messages, and phone app allowing you to make calls and answer texts without ever touching your phone.

The ability to search the internet via Siri is another large step that the Apple Watch makes. “You can use Siri by just pressing the crown,” said Kevin Lynch, Vice President of Apple, “Then simply ask a question like what movies are playing in Cupertino today, and it comes back with a list of movies here in Cupertino.” Lynch demonstrated the ease with which the watch searched the internet and the ability to do so from your wrist is a very large step in the personal device industry. 

The watch is starting at only $349 and will be released early next year. It will be compatible with both the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, as well as iPhone 5, iPhone 5s, and iPhone 5c. “This gives more than 200 million people access to Apple Watch,” said Cook.

“It empowers people and enriches their lives,” said Cook “The Apple watch is the most personal device Apple has ever created.” 

The Apple Watches various designs being shown off in a brand new video. Many colors are available making the watch customizable to all.

Cook introduces dial feature of the Apple Watch. This makes it easy to zoom in and out of desired content.

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