Sports

Major shifts in the sports industry are transforming how athletes compete, how schools shape their programs, and how businesses build market share. But as the landscape shifts, fast-moving laws and league rules can derail deals and pull clients into high-profile disputes.

Our sports team helps clients stay ahead of these changes and reduce uncertainty. Our connections across conferences and governing bodies keep clients plugged into what’s coming next. We turn new rules into practical strategies backed by strong contracts and creative problem‑solving. Across the Gulf South, we’re already on the field as the new business of sports takes shape.

Positioning Clients for the Long Game

The House settlement and new name, image and likeness (NIL) rules raise high‑stakes questions. What deals can athletes safely sign? What can schools offer to recruit athletes? How will revenue‑sharing affect eligibility, team operations and compliance?

We help clients answer these questions across every level of competition, from high school prospects and college programs to professional organizations and sports startups. Our team protects clients’ assets and business ventures to strengthen their long‑term strategies in the quickly changing sports landscape. We give clients the clarity they need to tap into new revenue streams, avoid penalties and stay competitive for seasons to come.

Building Careers On and Off the Field

For student-athletes, every NIL agreement, tax decision or sponsorship term can influence their long‑term financial goals. We partner with athletes to lay out their options, identify risks in contracts and business arrangements and help them make informed choices so they can build their careers with confidence.

Helping Schools Navigate the New State of Play

Schools still carry core responsibilities for academic eligibility, student privacy and Title IX compliance. But now they also must prepare for possible employment issues tied to student-athlete compensation. Conflicts between licensing terms, publicity rights and school policies can also put programs at risk.

Our lawyers work with colleges to manage NIL deals, sponsorships and recruiting activity while protecting student-athlete eligibility and academic standing, and we step in early to reduce the risk of disputes or investigations tied to inducements or conflicting rules. We also strengthen policies and training to limit exposure to employment claims and resolve intellectual property (IP) and branding issues where school and athlete rights overlap.

The Phelps Roster

Made up of former athletes and avid fans, our sports team understands how new laws and court decisions impact teams and players on the ground. Our lawyers guide national industry groups, steer conversations on state legislation, and help athletes navigate first-of-their kind NIL trials. We work with clients across a wide range of sports, including:

• • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Climbing
  • Content creators
  • Diving
  • Esports
  • Fencing
  • Football
  • Hockey
  • Rugby
  • Swimming
  • Soccer
  • Track and field
  • Volleyball