Who is the highest-paid female college athlete NIL?

By Justin Rubin July 14, 2023 14:00

Photo by forbes

According to recent reports, Livvy Dunne, Sunisa Lee, and Paige Bueckers are among the top compensated female athletes. However, it is unclear who the highest-paid female college athlete under the new name, image, and likeness (NIL) rules is.

Since the NCAA approved the policy allowing college athletes to receive compensation for their name, image, and likeness in June 2021, student-athletes have been able to profit from their athletic achievements outside of traditional scholarships and stipends. This has created new opportunities for female athletes who may have previously been overlooked or undervalued in the sports world.

In fact, a recent NIL deal signed by a Clemson University lacrosse player may be the start of similar deals for athletes in non-revenue-generating sports. Smaller sports that may not draw crowds, such as golf, tennis, softball, and swimming, can attract endorsement deals through social media presence. Thus, female athletes in these sports have newfound opportunities to monetize their personal brands and athletic achievements.

Haley Jones, a junior All-Pac-12 player, signed with PRP, a sports-management firm, to monetize her status as an NCAA champion and All-Pac-12 player. Since then, Jones has inked a deal to promote the NBA2K video game and has posted nearly 50 times to her Instagram page. Jones' content is inspired by female athletes and females in general who are natural content creators, according to Jade-Li English, an agent and marketing director for Octagon sports management’s basketball division. “There are a lot of brands opening their eyes and realizing the power of female athletes...” said English.

While it is not clear who the highest-paid female college athlete under NIL rules is, it is likely that athletes who have a strong social media presence and personal brand will be among the top earners. Endorsement deals with companies that align with the athlete's personal values and interests may also be lucrative. However, student-athletes must navigate the landscape with guidance and caution to ensure compliance with NIL rules.

It is important to note that student-athletes must avoid endorsement deals that conflict with their university's existing sponsorship agreements. Promoting prohibited products, making false statements or claims, and improper social media use are among the activities prohibited under NIL rules. Thus, it is crucial for student-athletes to be aware of the rules in their state and to consult with their university and legal counsel to ensure compliance.

In conclusion, the highest-paid female college athlete under the new NIL rules remains unclear. However, the new policy has provided female athletes with more opportunities to monetize their personal brands and athletic achievements. Endorsement deals with companies that align with the athlete's personal values and interests may be lucrative, but student-athletes must navigate the landscape with guidance and caution to ensure compliance with NIL rules.