High School Athlete’s Mom Sues Over NIL Ban

Imagine being a star athlete with the potential to earn significant income, only to be told you can’t because of where you live. That’s the reality for Jamier Brown, a highly-touted high school wide receiver in Ohio. While other states are embracing Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for student-athletes, Ohio’s High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) maintains a ban, and now, Jamier’s mother is fighting back.

The Potential of NIL for High Schoolers

ESPN reports that Jamier Brown, a standout in the class of 2027, could potentially earn over $100,000 through NIL deals. These opportunities could include trading card deals and other ventures that offer both financial compensation and valuable non-monetary benefits like networking and enhanced reputation. However, due to the OHSAA’s current policy, these avenues are closed off to him and other Ohio high school athletes.

This situation highlights a growing divide across the country. While states like North Carolina allow high schoolers to profit from NIL, others, like Texas, have implemented specific restrictions, such as requiring athletes to be 17 and enrolled in college before they can enter NIL deals. Ohio’s blanket ban stands in contrast to these evolving policies.

A Mother’s Fight for Economic Liberty

Jamier’s mother, Jasmine, has filed a lawsuit in Franklin County, arguing that the OHSAA’s stance is not only “outdated and unlawful” but also unfairly targets Ohio’s student-athletes. The lawsuit contends that the ban “unlawfully suppresses their economic liberties, freedom of expression, and restrains competition in the NIL marketplace.”

Jasmine Brown explained her motivation to ESPN: “What pushed me was knowing that allowing NIL for high school athletes in Ohio could be a game changer for a lot of kids like me.” She added that NIL earnings would help alleviate financial burdens for her family, covering essential costs like tutoring, training, and travel that contribute to Jamier’s development as both a student and an athlete.

Legal Action and Potential Changes

Jamier’s attorney, Luke Fedlam, echoed this sentiment, noting that many families recognize the significant opportunities NIL presents. He believes Jamier’s family is representative of those who see NIL as a way to support their children’s athletic and academic pursuits while easing financial pressures.

The OHSAA is aware of the potential for such legal challenges. Tim Stried, the OHSAA Media Relations Director, mentioned that legal actions like this often trigger emergency votes among member schools. He indicated that a decision on whether to hold an emergency vote and its timeframe would be determined soon.