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- The First Whistle: $2.8B
The First Whistle: $2.8B
NCAA settlement receives ____, MLB buys stake in ____, Caitlin Clark releases ____, and MORE!
December 11, 2025
Hi ,
What began five years ago and became the most controversial topic across the entire sports landscape has finally come to a close.
Well… sort of. But actually not at all.
After being dragged out for ages, the House v. NCAA settlement received final approval a week ago. But if you think this is the end of the saga, you better buckle up. This settlement will only bring about more of its own issues. More cases. More bills. More controversy.
And what do you know? We already have an appeal and a new bill proposal! Will we ever escape this perpetual Groundhog Day of college athletics?
At least some are cashing out thanks to the settlement. Scroll down to the starts to find out who’s making $2.8 billion from this approval and read more about what’s next for Congress, the NCAA, and athletic departments across the country.
— Avery Glover
Who ya got? 🏀👇 |
Current Offerings:
How the spoils of NCAA settlement will be divided
Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne is preparing for the implementation of the House settlement, which allows schools to directly pay athletes up to $20.5 million annually from department revenue. Byrne said not all athletes will receive payments, and the school will need to allocate funds strategically. In fiscal 2024, only Alabama football and men’s basketball turned a profit, while the department faced a $28 million deficit. Byrne emphasized the challenge of maintaining a broad sports program under the new system, noting that every coach will want revenue share for their athletes.
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MLB buys stake in Jomboy media
Major League Baseball bought a minority stake in Jomboy Media, known for its popular and humorous baseball content. The deal gives Jomboy access to MLB IP, merchandising, sponsorships, and league platforms. MLB will also help feature players and celebrities in Jomboy’s The Warehouse Games. MLB’s Kenny Gersh said the investment supports authentic baseball voices and helps reach more fans. The deal doesn’t give MLB editorial control and has been in the works for about a year. |
Caitlin Clark, Wilson unveil 4 new designs for WNBA star's basketballs in video, photo
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Wilson Basketball unveiled a new collection of signature basketballs on Monday. The line features four colorways—Embrace, Aspire, Oasis, and Envision—designed with Clark’s input. Wilson’s director of global marketing, David Picioski, praised Clark as a cultural influence and highlighted the brand’s goal of inspiring future athletes. Wilson previously released two limited-edition basketballs with Clark in 2024, which sold out within an hour. The new collection will be available online and in stores starting June 23.
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The NWSL’s most valuable teams 2025
The 14 clubs in the National Women’s Soccer League are now collectively worth close to $2 billion, with Forbes estimating an average team valuation of $134 million. Angel City FC leads at $280 million, followed by the Kansas City Current at $275 million. Both clubs also top 2024 revenue charts, with Kansas City earning $36 million and Angel City $35 million. Record-breaking 2024 attendance, viewership, and $240M in new media deals have fueled growth. Despite many teams operating at a loss, investors are betting on long-term upside as interest, revenue, and demand for expansion continue to rise.
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Congress introduces bill addressing national guidelines for college sports
Following the approval of major NCAA antitrust settlements, U.S. House Representatives have introduced a bipartisan bill to create national college sports rules. Both proposals aim to prevent college athletes from being classified as employees and would allow the NCAA and a new Collegiate Sports Commission to set enforceable rules on recruitment, transfers, eligibility, and conduct. They include legal protections for institutions and governing bodies against lawsuits stemming from rule-making. Key athlete benefits include extended medical coverage for sports injuries, guaranteed financial aid to complete degrees, and improved access to independent medical care and mental health services.
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The richest female sports team owners 2025
Forbes highlights 11 billionaire women who own major professional sports franchises, with a combined net worth of around $85 billion. Leading the list is Miriam Adelson—the new owner of the Dallas Mavericks—followed by others who hold significant stakes across the NBA, NFL, NWSL, and European soccer. These influential figures demonstrate growing female representation in sports ownership.
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⬆️ Nick Chubb. Nick Chubb has signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Houston Texans. - Jason Owens
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