College Sports
How Mississippi State’s Embracing NIL Change
How Mississippi State’s Embracing NIL Change originally appeared on Athlon Sports. When the NCAA’s long-anticipated House v. NCAA settlement was finalized, ushering in a new era of direct revenue sharing in college athletics, many universities were left scrambling. Mississippi State wasn’t one of them. Advertisement In fact, the Bulldogs have been quietly building their war […]
How Mississippi State’s Embracing NIL Change originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
When the NCAA’s long-anticipated House v. NCAA settlement was finalized, ushering in a new era of direct revenue sharing in college athletics, many universities were left scrambling. Mississippi State wasn’t one of them.
Advertisement
In fact, the Bulldogs have been quietly building their war chest for this moment.
Now that schools are permitted to share up to $20.5 million annually with student-athletes, Mississippi State is moving with purpose, poised to take full advantage of the new landscape.
Last fall, Mississippi State introduced the State Excellence Fund, a proactive initiative designed to support student-athletes both on and off the field. While it wasn’t publicly pitched as a revenue-sharing strategy, insiders now view it as a calculated move, and one that is laying the foundation for today’s game-changing NCAA reforms.
Nashville, TN, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs forward Jimmy Bell Jr. (15) works against Auburn Tigers forward Johni Broome (4) during the second half at Bridgestone ArenaChristopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images
“This news allows us to move ahead in our pursuit of new heights,” said Athletic Director Zac Selmon. While Selmon didn’t provide specific figures, the tone suggests Mississippi State plans to distribute the full $20.5 million allowed.
Advertisement
As with most Power Four programs, football and men’s basketball will see the lion’s share of funds. But MSU’s commitment to baseball stands out in a big way.
The hiring of championship-winning coach Brian O’Connor sent a clear message: Mississippi State baseball is a top-tier priority. Under the new rules, universities can fully fund scholarships for every player on a roster. This is a massive shift, especially for baseball, where partial scholarships have long been the norm.
Mississippi State isn’t wasting the opportunity.
Expect the Bulldogs to lead the way in scholarship spending and NIL support for baseball, giving them a competitive edge not just in the SEC, but nationally. The move is a potential game-changer for the Diamond Dawgs, already one of the most passionate and well-supported programs in college baseball.
Mississippi State breaks in the renovated Dudy Noble Field with a three-game series against Youngstown State in Feb. 2019. Dudy Noble Field is named after a former Mississippi State coach and athletic director.© Keith Warren / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Under the new model, all third-party NIL deals valued at $600 or more must pass through a national clearinghouse called “NIL Go.” The aim? To close loopholes and prevent schools from gaming the cap via outside collectives.
Advertisement
But rather than see this as a hurdle, Mississippi State appears ready to adapt.
With strong university backing, private fundraising momentum, and a clear vision from its leadership, MSU is positioning itself as a forward-thinking contender in the rapidly evolving college sports economy.
This isn’t just a business move, it’s a cultural shift. Mississippi State is no longer reacting to change. It’s leading it.
And for Bulldog Nation, it means your teams, especially on the gridiron, the hardwood, and the diamond will have the resources, scholarships, and support needed to compete with the best.
The future of college sports is here. And Mississippi State is ready.
Advertisement
Related: Mississippi State Baseball Transfer Exodus
Related: Mississippi State Baseball Reloads with Transfers, Returns
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.