Mike Krzyzewski evaluates NIL’s impact on college basketball, reveals ‘unintended consequence’
In 2021, Mike Krzyzewski began his final season as Duke head coach before retirement. It was also the start of the NIL era in college sports, though he has made it clear that’s not why he chose to walk away. Krzyzewski has watched from afar as NIL and the transfer portal became important parts of the college athletics landscape.
Specifically, he acknowledged athletes staying in school longer – but that led to an “unintended consequence” as a result. SUBSCRIBE to the On3 NIL and Sports Business Newsletter Speaking with TNT Sports’ Ernie Johnson ahead of the Final Four, Krzyzewski joked about how much fun college is and said the ability to make money adds to it. However, he said those athletes who stay in college aren’t necessarily doing so with the same program with the transfer portal as an option.
“It’s good for the families that need it,” Krzyzewski said . “NIL – name, image and likeness – the reason it was brought in is because you should have the ability to take advantage of your persona. The consequences of doing that are all good.
There were some unintended consequences, like when coaches say it keeps [athletes] in school longer. It does, but not at the same school. “However, how can being in college longer be bad?
I mean, really? … It’s the best time of your life. You’re playing a sport that you love.