Official court documents or credible news sources reporting on the ruling

Judge Wilken Delays Preliminary Approval of House v. NCAA Settlement Over NIL, Revenue-Sharing Concerns

Sep 5, 2024, 11:01 PM

The preliminary approval hearing for the House v. NCAA settlement began today before U.S. District Judge Claudia Wilken. The hearing, conducted via Zoom, focused on the proposed multi-billion-dollar settlement addressing athlete compensation. Judge Wilken expressed significant concerns about the settlement's restrictions on third-party NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) payments, which could limit athletes' earnings from collectives and boosters. She emphasized the need for more detailed notice to athletes and questioned the fairness of the settlement's treatment of female athletes. The judge suggested that the parties might need to revisit the settlement terms, particularly around NIL restrictions, to ensure they are workable and enforceable. As a result, Judge Wilken did not make a ruling on the preliminary approval today, indicating that further modifications are necessary. The NCAA's lead attorney, Rakesh Kilaru, acknowledged that the settlement's current form might not be viable without addressing the judge's concerns. Attorney Jeff Kessler highlighted the historic nature of the relief provided by the settlement, which includes revenue-sharing. Judge Wilken also indicated a willingness to preliminarily approve the Hubbard case while issues with the House settlement are resolved.