Building a team approach to athlete success

In the NIL era, no single professional can cover everything an athlete needs. Contracts, compliance, brand deals, financial planning, and legal rights each require specialized expertise. That’s why the most successful athletes rely on a team approach—where NIL attorneys, agents, and advisors collaborate to protect the athlete’s present and build their future.

Here’s how attorneys fit into that team and why coordination with agents and advisors matters.

The Role of the NIL Attorney

Attorneys focus on the legal side of representation, ensuring every agreement is enforceable, compliant, and protective of the athlete’s rights. They:

  • Review and negotiate contracts
  • Safeguard eligibility under NCAA, state, and school rules
  • Protect intellectual property (logos, trademarks, slogans)
  • Resolve disputes and enforce contracts
  • Set up business entities like LLCs or S-Corps

Bottom line: Attorneys are the legal backstop—making sure athletes don’t get trapped by vague, unfair, or noncompliant terms.

The Role of the NIL Agent

Agents are the deal-makers and relationship builders. They:

  • Source brand partnerships and sponsorship opportunities
  • Negotiate commercial terms with companies
  • Build connections with brands that align with the athlete’s image
  • Act as the first point of contact for NIL opportunities

Bottom line: Agents bring deals to the table and maximize earning potential.

The Role of the NIL Advisor

Advisors (financial planners, CPAs, or tax professionals) manage the money side. They:

  • Budget and manage cash flow
  • Handle tax filings and estimated payments
  • Provide investment and insurance strategies
  • Plan for long-term financial stability and wealth building

Bottom line: Advisors ensure that NIL income isn’t just earned—it’s managed wisely.

How They Work Together

1. Contract Negotiations

  • Agent: Negotiates business terms (how much, what deliverables, how long).
  • Attorney: Reviews legal terms (payment enforcement, usage rights, termination, compliance).
  • Advisor: Ensures payment structure and tax implications fit the athlete’s financial plan.

2. Business Formation

  • Attorney: Creates LLC/S-Corp and drafts agreements.
  • Advisor: Sets up tax elections and accounting systems.
  • Agent: Runs NIL deals through the entity for professionalism and credibility.

3. Compliance and Eligibility

  • Attorney: Confirms deals align with laws and school policies.
  • Agent: Communicates opportunities to compliance offices.
  • Advisor: Tracks income and ensures disclosure for tax compliance.

4. Brand and Long-Term Planning

  • Agent: Focuses on building exposure and sponsorships.
  • Attorney: Protects trademarks, logos, and licensing rights.
  • Advisor: Prepares for financial growth beyond college.

Benefits of a Team Approach

  • Complete coverage: No blind spots in legal, business, or financial areas.
  • Faster execution: Each professional handles their specialty.
  • Peace of mind: Parents and athletes know every angle is managed.
  • Stronger results: Athletes maximize opportunities while protecting eligibility and reputation.

Final Takeaway

Athlete success in the NIL era isn’t about choosing between an attorney, agent, or advisor—it’s about building the right team where each role complements the others.

An NIL attorney ensures contracts are legally sound. An agent secures deals. An advisor grows and protects the money earned. Together, they give athletes the tools to succeed today and thrive tomorrow.

At www.NILAttorneyDirectory.com, we help athletes and families connect with attorneys who collaborate seamlessly with agents and advisors—because your brand and future deserve a team approach.