The NIL Era: Reshaping the Landscape of Women's College Basketball

Bueckers, NIL, and the Changing Dynamics of the WNBA Draft

Paige Bueckers, a UConn icon, is poised to be the first No. 1 WNBA draft pick from the university since Breanna Stewart nine years ago. Both players achieved legendary status during their college careers, reaching four Final Fours. However, a significant difference separates their paths: Bueckers capitalized on the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), earning millions while still in college.

Unlike the NBA, the WNBA doesn't have a one-and-done path for young players. Women must either be seniors or turn 22 in the draft year to be eligible. This difference, combined with a significant pay gap between the leagues, has created a unique dynamic in women's basketball.

The Smart Business of Staying in School

While a top NBA draft pick can expect a multi-million dollar rookie contract, the WNBA's top pick will earn considerably less. This disparity makes staying in college a financially sound decision for many women's basketball stars. NIL deals offer substantial earning potential, sometimes rivalling or exceeding potential WNBA rookie salaries.

“I think Paige is the poster child for how it’s supposed to be,” UConn coach Geno Auriemma said, emphasizing the benefits of NIL deals for college athletes who build their brand and gain recognition without direct financial compensation from their schools. “That’s the way it’s supposed to work.”

NIL: A Game-Changer for Female Athletes

The Cavinder twins, Haley and Hanna, became early pioneers of the NIL era, amassing a multimillion-dollar fortune through endorsements and social media influence. Their experience highlights the transformative impact of NIL, offering unprecedented financial opportunities to female athletes. "I think we were pretty naive in the beginning with it, honestly," Haley Cavinder admitted. "I didn’t know how much money there was.”

Choosing College over the Pros: A New Trend

Olivia Miles, a Notre Dame standout projected as a top WNBA draft pick, opted to enter the transfer portal, prioritizing her lucrative NIL deals over immediate professional play. Similarly, JuJu Watkins, despite an ACL injury, can continue leveraging her NIL potential during her recovery, demonstrating that going pro isn't the only path to financial success.

Female Athletes: The Most Effective Media Buy in Sports?

Data from Opendorse, a company providing NIL services, reveals a compelling trend. Top women’s basketball programs often surpass men’s programs in combined social media following, a key metric for NIL value. Steve Denton, CEO of Opendorse, boldly stated, “Female student-athletes are probably the most effective media buy in sports right now.” He attributed this to the larger social audiences cultivated by female athletes and their superior curation of online content.

The Long Game: Education, NIL, and the WNBA

The NIL landscape has provided female athletes like Kate Martin, a six-year Iowa player, with the opportunity to earn while pursuing their education. Martin cited the financial benefits of NIL as a significant factor in her decision to stay in college, acknowledging the criticism she faced for her extended college career. "I wouldn't be where I am right now if I didn't stay.”