INTRODUCTION

The landscape of collegiate athletics is undergoing a seismic shift, propelled by two transformative trends: the national expansion of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities and the broader unraveling of the NCAA's traditional framework. These developments signal a complete transformation in youth and collegiate sports.  At the national level, NIL has opened unprecedented avenues for athletes to monetize their personal brands, fundamentally altering the dynamics of collegiate sports.

In Arizona, the recent clarity provided by the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) on NIL regulations presents a unique opportunity for the No Backboard Basketball League (NBBL) to engage high school athletes with NIL opportunities, setting the stage for early brand development and athlete empowerment.

NIL in Arizona

The two athletic associations that govern Arizona high school sports are evolving in their approach to NIL. The AIA has clarified their position with AIA bylaw 15.11.1.2, which states:

• 15.11.1.2.1: The compensation is not contingent on athletic performance or achievement.

• 15.11.1.2.2: The compensation is not an incentive to enroll in or remain enrolled at a specific school.



In addition, athletes cannot work with a collective, use their school’s name or mark, or participate in NIL activities in an AIA facility. For more details, you can refer to the Yahoo Sports report on the AIA’s announcement.

Summary of the NBBL High School Brand Ambassador Pilot Program

The NBBL High School Brand Ambassador Pilot Program is a holistic initiative by the No Backboard Basketball League (NBBL) designed to support NIL-eligible basketball athletes in maximizing their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities by leveraging the benefits of skill development and exposure that the NBBL offers. The NBBL High School Brand Ambassador Pilot Program aims to provide a structured approach for NIL-eligible athletes and their families to earn, develop, and learn simultaneously.

The NBBL High School Brand Ambassador Pilot is an 8-week program testing the basic components for a sustainable NBBL NIL Program. The pilot will work with 12 high school basketball players from the class of 2026. The basics of the program consist of four three-hour training sessions and a 6-week social media campaign merchandising our t-shirts, hats, and UHoopers Membership.