Today marks the start of a new era for college sports. An interim policy approved yesterday by the NCAA allows student athletes to make money off the use of their name, image and likeness.
Sports agent Lee Steinburg says the move makes a big difference, especially for students with low-income backgrounds.
"The ones from disadvantaged homes have a hard time and don't live at the same standard as their non-athletic peers, because they can't work during the school year to supplement income," Steinburg says. "They have a difficult time. And they sit in a big filled stadium or arena looking at the stands … and they're resentful."
But now, that’s changing. Some states were already allowing the athletes to profit off their fame, but the new policy makes it so that all players can benefit, no matter what state their school is in.
The NCAA says it is still against pay-for -play and "improper inducements" tied to athletes choosing to attend certain schools. Officials say they are working with congress for a more permanent solution.
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