Morgan State University has decided to participate in the House v. NCAA settlement, which aims to rectify previous disparities in student-athlete compensation.
Morgan State University’s Board of Regents has approved the institution’s participation in the House v. NCAA settlement. This groundbreaking agreement, valued at over $2.7 billion, addresses restrictive policies that previously limited college athletes’ ability to profit from their name, image, and likeness before the NCAA updated its regulations in 2021.
“Morgan’s decision to opt into the House v. NCAA settlement reflects our unwavering commitment to student-athlete success and our proactive approach to navigating the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics,” stated David K. Wilson, president of MSU. “With the full support of our Board of Regents, we believe this decision is in the best interest of our institution, ensuring compliance, stability, and new opportunities for our student-athletes moving forward.”
What it Means for Morgan
Morgan State’s participation in this settlement offers two benefits: a revenue-sharing plan and immunity from future lawsuits about NIL limits. The school can directly fund student-athletes through this arrangement, preserving competitive athletic programs and promoting equity.
Morgan State will contribute an estimated $231,227 to the settlement fund as part of its commitment. The football team will have 105 players instead of 130 and new rosters and scholarship caps will be implemented. Changes to roster restrictions are also anticipated for the men’s and women’s basketball and tennis teams. The institution will be free to increase Olympic sports possibilities by Title IX compliance standards.
“Opting in ensures that we remain competitive while continuing to prioritize the well-being and success of our student-athletes,” said Dena Freeman-Patton, vice president and director for intercollegiate athletics at Morgan. “This decision allows us to leverage institutional resources strategically, invest in our programs, and create pathways for financial support beyond traditional NIL opportunities. Ultimately, this strengthens our ability to recruit, retain, and support the next generation of Morgan Bear athletes.”
Morgan State’s decision comes after automatic inclusions for Power Five conference institutions. Other Division I schools, including those in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, had until March 1 to decide. Morgan’s decision to join the settlement on its own shows its commitment to compliance, program improvement, and the overall experience of its student-athletes.
This article sources information from Morgan State University.
