A North Carolina judge has dismissed a lawsuit from the 1983 NC State men’s basketball team, aiming to receive compensation for their names, images, and likenesses. This famous team, called the “Cardiac Pack,” gained attention for their thrilling victories, including a nail-biting 54-52 win over Houston in the national championship. Lorenzo Charles clinched the victory with a buzzer-beating dunk, while coach Jim Valvano famously rushed the court, a moment still celebrated during March Madness.
The lawsuit was initiated by twelve players in June 2024, stating that for over 40 years, the NCAA had profited unfairly from their publicity rights tied to that iconic game. The players argued they deserved “reasonable compensation” for their contributions.
The NCAA sought to have the case dismissed, citing a previous dismissal of a similar lawsuit from a former Kansas basketball player. Superior Court Judge Mark A. Davis agreed, asserting that the claims were untimely and did not uphold a legally enforceable right.
Interestingly, the NCAA has faced growing scrutiny over athlete compensation. Recently, the House vs. NCAA settlement was approved, promising almost $2.8 billion in restitution to athletes for lost opportunities related to name, image, and likeness (NIL) since 2016.
While Lorenzo Charles and Dereck Whittenburg, who played pivotal roles in that championship game, chose not to join the lawsuit, attorney Stacy Miller, representing the plaintiffs, expressed pride in their stand against a system viewed as exploitative toward student-athletes.
This case highlights the ongoing debate around athlete compensation, reflecting a broader societal shift. Many former players are now advocating for fair treatment and financial recognition, a movement that is gaining traction across social media, with hashtags like #PayThePlayers trending among sports fans and advocates alike.
As the landscape of collegiate sports evolves, the conversation around athlete rights continues to grow. The push for change mirrors past civil rights movements, emphasizing the importance of fairness and equity, particularly for young athletes who contribute so much to college sports without reaping the benefits.
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