Impact of NIL on Cinderella Stories in March Madness
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Mar 19 2026
0mins
Source: CNBC
- NIL's Competitive Impact: With the introduction of NIL (name, image, and likeness) compensation, former coach Jim Boeheim stated that schools need to invest at least $10 million to compete for a national championship, which would require men's basketball to consume 50% of the total budget.
- Disappearance of Cinderella Stories: Successes of mid-major schools like VCU are seen as vital marketing tools; however, Boeheim warns that the influence of NIL may make it increasingly difficult for these schools to replicate past glories, leading to the potential disappearance of Cinderella stories.
- Unequal Funding Distribution: VCU spent about $5 million on men's basketball this season, but under the NIL framework, top players are more likely to transfer to wealthier schools, undermining the competitiveness of mid-major programs.
- Viewership Ratings Paradox: Despite last year's tournament featuring almost no upsets, it achieved the highest ratings since 1993, with CBS Sports President noting that viewers prefer watching powerhouse teams, which may further dim the future of Cinderella stories.
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Analyst Views on NKE
Wall Street analysts forecast NKE stock price to rise
21 Analyst Rating
14 Buy
7 Hold
0 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 51.370
Low
62.00
Averages
76.11
High
110.00
Current: 51.370
Low
62.00
Averages
76.11
High
110.00
About NKE
NIKE, Inc. is engaged in the designing, marketing and distributing of athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories and services for sports and fitness activities. The Company's operating segments include North America; Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA); Greater China; and Asia Pacific & Latin America (APLA). It sells a line of equipment and accessories under the NIKE Brand name, including bags, socks, sport balls, eyewear, timepieces, digital devices, bats, gloves, protective equipment and other equipment designed for sports activities. It also designs products specifically for the Jordan Brand and Converse. The Jordan Brand designs, distributes and licenses athletic and casual footwear, apparel and accessories predominantly focused on basketball performance and culture using the Jumpman trademark. The Company also designs, distributes and licenses casual sneakers, apparel and accessories under the Chuck Taylor, All Star, One Star, Star Chevron and Jack Purcell trademarks.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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