The term “nil” in the context of Facebook often arises when discussing the Name, Image, and Likeness rights of collegiate athletes. It refers to the ability of these athletes to profit from their personal brand, separate from any direct compensation from their university or the NCAA. For example, an athlete might receive payment for endorsing a local business, leveraging their status and public recognition cultivated through their athletic performance.
This development represents a significant shift in amateur athletics. Previously, athletes were strictly prohibited from profiting from their name, image, or likeness, a rule designed to maintain a distinction between amateur and professional sports. Allowing athletes to benefit from their personal brand provides them with financial opportunities and recognizes the value they bring to their institutions and the public. This has also created new marketplaces and industries centered around athlete endorsements and sponsorships.