Zach Edey, the towering center from Purdue, has become a household name in college basketball. His dominance in the paint and impressive performances have drawn attention. However, there’s a bitter pill he must swallow—one that stems from United States law and its impact on international players.
NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals have revolutionized college sports. Players can now profit from their brand, endorsements, and social media presence. But for Zach Edey, this opportunity remains elusive due to his Canadian status and the legal restrictions that come with it.
Edey, a two-time AP Player of the Year, is attending Purdue on a student visa. Unfortunately, this status prevents him from capitalizing on NIL deals within American borders. While he can earn money through deals in his home country of Canada or during international travel, the domestic soil remains off-limits.
Zach Edey opened up on his situation.
“I feel like I’m missing out on a lot of money.” “I hope they change it in the future. I obviously have lost out on a lot of money this year. At the end of the day it needs to change, for sure.”
Edey’s frustration is palpable. He can’t film commercials in West Lafayette or participate in local NIL campaigns. The law creates a paradox: while he excels on the court, he watches others profit from their image and popularity.
“I feel like I’m missing out on a lot of money.”
“I hope they change it in the future. I obviously have lost out on a lot of money this year. At the end of the day it needs to change, for sure.”
Purdue’s Zach Edey, who is Canadian, is upset that they are missing out on NIL… pic.twitter.com/YhYvqaS4hU
— BASKETBALL ON 𝕏 (@BasketballOnX) April 5, 2024
Zach Edey Hope’s for a Change
Edey’s plea is clear: “I hope they change it in the future.” He recognizes the legal complexities but believes it’s time for reform. The American law, not an NCAA rule, stands as the barrier. As he navigates this challenge, Edey remains focused on basketball, leaving the business side to his agents.
As the season unfolds, Edey’s lost earnings accumulate. Yet, he channels his frustration into performance. The hope remains that future international players won’t face the same dilemma—a game-changing shift that could redefine college sports.
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