Dear UConn Nation,

The seismic movements in collegiate athletics over the past few years, including Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) and the transfer portal, have reshaped our industry. And this spring, another game changer will shake college sports, as the House settlement is expected to be approved, setting the stage for institutional revenue sharing with student-athletes beginning in the 2025-26 academic year. Safe to say, what we have witnessed is both an evolution and a revolution.

For those wondering about the origins of the House settlement, it started with three different antitrust lawsuits against the NCAA and the power conferences which challenged long-standing restrictions on the ability for student-athletes to financially benefit from their NIL. The proposed settlement gained preliminary approval from the court in October 2024, with final approval expected in early April 2025 and implementation on July 1, 2025. The settlement consists of these main components:

• Revenue Sharing and NIL

Universities will be allowed to directly share revenues with student-athletes, in addition to providing already-existing benefits such as scholarships, housing and meals. Our revenue distribution model will be driven by market factors and overall revenues generated by each sport.  

• Back Damages

The NCAA will pay roughly $2.6 billion over 10 years to former student-athletes who did not have the opportunity to earn money from their NIL. This will be funded by the withholding of revenue distribution payments from the NCAA to member institutions. The reduced distribution will cost UConn approximately $500,000 per year over the 10-year period.

• Rosters/Scholarships

Roster caps will now be imposed instead of existing scholarship limits. UConn currently provides full or partial scholarship aid to 420 of its 580 student-athletes (72%). The generosity of our Husky Athletic Fund members will continue to provide critical private resources for our student-athletes to enjoy an exceptional college experience in Storrs.

I have been asked by many of our loyal donors and fans, "How can I help?" The commencement of revenue sharing will represent a significant and necessary expense going forward. As such, we will make considerable effort to maximize existing revenue streams, such as media rights, sponsorship income and ticket sales, while also employing appropriate cost containment measures. But more than anything else, the continued and enhanced participation of our supporters will ultimately define how effectively we navigate the new normal.

For those who have previously contributed to Bleeding Blue for Good (BBFG) in support of our NIL efforts, you may know that BBFG is no longer accepting donations, given the transition occurring in college athletics and the need to strategically position ourselves for the future.

Reflecting the overall changes in the landscape, we encourage Husky fans everywhere to consider these current ways to make a difference:

• The Fight On Fund supports the overall development of UConn's student-athletes and will provide essential resources for revenue sharing. This is the best place to direct a donation to show your Husky pride. We encourage you to make an impactful gift today!
• Storrs Central powers the NIL opportunities for our Huskies and is fueled by many passionate supporters who are devoted to UConn's ongoing success. For inquiries about how your business can work with UConn student-athletes to amplify your message, please contact Shane Kelley at shane@storrscentral.com.
• Husky Athletic Fund membership and season ticket purchases are vital to our operation and will positively impact our revenue sharing efforts. If you're currently an HAF member, we appreciate your dedication and ask you to consider augmenting your annual gift. If you're not a member, please join us to support the academic and athletic experience for our Huskies. In terms of ticket sales, we are nearly maximizing attendance in men's and women's basketball, which we must continue to do, but growing our sales in football and other ticketed sports presents a tangible and substantial upside in potential revenue growth.  

In any business, change is inevitable. Market forces require organizations to adapt. At UConn, we view these transformative conditions as opportunities. We will embrace the moment and strategically work within this new framework to uphold our championship tradition.

Amid the uncertainty associated with change, there is one thing we know for sure. This will require a total team effort, which can only flourish with the involvement of everyone in UConn Nation. The Husky spirit reflects our collective grit, determination and perseverance. Together, we will chart a course for sustained achievements and the resultant pride associated with our successes.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our mission for excellence. We will share another update after the court rules on the House settlement in early April. Go Huskies!

Sincerely,

David Benedict

Director of Athletics