North Dakota State Joins NCAA Settlement: What It Means for Students and the Future of College Sports

FARGO — There’s a new chapter for North Dakota State University (NDSU) as they’ve officially opted into the NCAA vs. House settlement. Athletic director Matt Larsen shared key reasons for this decision: student-athletes will see roster cuts phased over five years instead of immediate reductions, and the university will manage Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals directly, rather than using third-party groups like The Green and The Gold Collective.

This change comes as new laws impose stricter regulations on collectives. Now, any third-party agreement must have a legitimate business purpose tied to promoting goods and services. In simpler terms, the pay-for-play model in college sports is being reined in.

At NDSU, the Team Makers booster club is transitioning to the Green and Gold Fund, which will oversee athlete payments directly from the athletic department. “This isn’t disappearing,” Larsen said. “We’re just shifting where the funds come from.”

One significant advantage of this new fund is that donations may be tax-deductible, unlike previously with The Green and The Gold Collective. This change could motivate more supporters to contribute, as articulated by Jay Bartley, who helped grow the initial collective.

The collective previously had around 700 active members, offering donors monthly options. Coach Tim Polasek emphasized the importance of bringing these supporters into the Green and Gold Fund. He wants to continue offering opportunities for them to engage with the team.

Interestingly, the opt-in decision marks a significant shift from where Larsen stood in January. At that time, he was hesitant due to concerns about immediate roster cuts affecting player opportunities. For instance, he projected that immediate cuts could eliminate participation for about 50 to 60 athletes. The university now has the flexibility to offer up to 105 football scholarships, but it remains uncertain if they will fully utilize this option.

This transition comes on the heels of a landmark settlement involving former Arizona State swimmer Grant House, which determines that additional athlete scholarships above NCAA limits count towards a $20.5 million benefits cap for the 2025-26 season. While this figure may sound high, it’s unlikely NDSU will reach that amount right away. Larsen has indicated they are not aiming to pay athletes exorbitantly, suggesting a more moderate approach.

Overall, these changes reflect a growing trend in college athletics towards increased funding and support for student-athletes, yet they also underscore the need for careful management and sustainable practices.

As NDSU moves forward, its commitment to supporting student-athletes remains strong. The transition to the Green and Gold Fund is promising, and fans are eager to see how this new strategy unfolds.

For additional insights on changes in college sports and athlete funding, check out the NCAA’s official resources here.

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