NIL
Former Kentucky Great Has Words About NIL: “I’m Glad I Didn’t Play in That Era”
Former Kentucky Great Has Words About NIL: “I’m Glad I Didn’t Play in That Era” originally appeared on Athlon Sports. When John Wall talks, Big Blue Nation listens. On a recent appearance on Sunday Mornings with Matt & Myron, former Kentucky Wildcat and NBA All-Star John Wall dropped an unexpected take on the hottest topic […]

Former Kentucky Great Has Words About NIL: “I’m Glad I Didn’t Play in That Era” originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
When John Wall talks, Big Blue Nation listens.
On a recent appearance on Sunday Mornings with Matt & Myron, former Kentucky Wildcat and NBA All-Star John Wall dropped an unexpected take on the hottest topic in college sports: NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness). In a world where top recruits like Cooper Flagg are rumored to earn upward of $28 million, Wall, arguably the face of the Kentucky basketball resurgence in 2009 says he’s thankful he missed the NIL boom.
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“For me, I’m glad I didn’t come up in that era, you know what I mean?” Wall said.
That’s not something you hear often, especially from a player who would’ve been one of college basketball’s highest earners in the NIL era. At Kentucky, Wall was the star. His signature dances and high-flying dunks helped catapult UK back into national relevance and led to being a No. 1 NBA Draft pick in 2010.
While acknowledging the positives, Wall made it clear that NIL has its challenges too.
“I think it’s great… but they gotta do like some boundaries with some of it… not like everybody jumping in the portal every year trying to just search for money.”
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The former Wildcat’s perspective brings a fresh voice to the NIL conversation. Wall is someone who respects the evolution of the game but is also wary of how it affects the spirit of college basketball. He even admitted that while he wouldn’t trade his time at UK, cashing in would’ve been “crazy.”
“That would be dope… how much I would have gotten from NIL for sure.”
Wall’s influence remains strong in Lexington. He revealed he’s been invited by new head coach Mark Pope to work out with the current squad this summer and promises a return to Rupp Arena is coming soon.
“Kentucky’s always home for me… I’m definitely coming back.”
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As the NIL era continues to reshape the college sports landscape, John Wall’s honest reflection is a reminder: some legends were built without a price tag and that may be what makes them truly priceless.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 3, 2025, where it first appeared.