Abstract
This Comment argues that passing the Amateur Athletes Protection and Compensation Rights Act of 2021 (AAPCA), Fair Pay to Play Act, and similar legislation will allow college athletes to rightfully profit from their names, images, and likenesses and open the door for star athletes to choose HBCUs over traditional Power Five sports programs. Part II of this Comment will explain the legislative and procedural battles student-athletes have faced when arguing against the NCAA for the right to earn compensation. Traditionally the NCAA has avoided compensating its athletes, and courts have avoided tackling the issue. Part III will analyze previous litigation under the lens of current and pending legislation surrounding these athletes’ rights and allowances. Finally, Part IV will recommend a new route for Black student athletes to take when advocating for the improvement of their rights and the prosperity of the Black community.