Federal Judge Puts NCAA $2.8 Billion Settlement on Hold Amid Concerns Over Key Provision

A federal judge in California on Sept. 5 rejected a key part of a proposed $2.8 billion settlement of an antitrust lawsuit against the NCAA and the nation’s five biggest athletic conferences. During a preliminary hearing on the settlement, Judge Claudia Wilken said she had concerns about a provision in the agreement that would restrict payments to college athletes from booster-funded organizations in schools that provide financial support and resources. As it stands, boosters can provide names, images, and likenesses to athletes that essentially serve as salaries. While the deal would see billions of dollars go to current and former NCAA athletes, Wilken said she was concerned it could possibly result in some athletes receiving less money....