the BigAmateurism monologues

One year ago, I published Episode 35 titled “Independence Day.” Today, I reprise that episode to refocus on the importance of applying our inalienable natural and American rights of liberty, equality, and economic self-determination to the athletes in college sports who give the revenue-producing products their value. Events of the last two weeks, including renewal of conference realignment and an emphasis on hiring key college sports decision-makers from the entertainment industry, call into question the value system of college sports and higher education writ large. The Power 5 and NCAA are nakedly and aggressively cutting the cord with their stated nonprofit educational missions in their quest for an NFL-style football product. Yet, at the same time, the Power 5 argue to Congress and federal courts that revenue-producing athletes are amateurs, not professionals, and “students,” not employees.