Mark Emmert is stepping down as NCAA president.
The shocking announcement came on Tuesday as Emmert released a joint statement with the NCAA announcing his resignation from the role he has held over the last 12 years.
“Today, NCAA Board of Governors Chair John J. DeGioia announced by mutual agreement with the board that Mark Emmert will be stepping down as president of the NCAA," the statement reads. "He will continue to serve in his role until a new president is selected and in place or until June 30, 2023."
Emmert’s announcement comes at a time where the college sports landscape is ever-changing as players now have the ability to profit off of their name, image and likeness.
As president of the NCAA, Emmert faced criticism for the slow pace of enacting the NIL policy and the body’s overall resistance to a pay for play system for college athletes.
Emmert, who was hired in 2010 as the fifth president in NCAA history, was given a contract extension through 2025 last year, but it is unclear what prompted him to step down.
“Throughout my tenure I’ve emphasized the need to focus on the experience and priorities of student-athletes,” Emmert said in the release. “I am extremely proud of the work of the association over the last 12 years and especially pleased with the hard work and dedication of the national office staff here in Indianapolis.”
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