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The NCAA has amended its controversial “Rich Paul Rule” that required agents to have a bachelor’s degree if they wished to represent a student-athlete who was exploring the NBA Draft waters. The rule was criticized by a number of high-profile figures — including LeBron James — for targeting aspiring agents who “do not have the resources, opportunity, or desire to get a four-year degree.”
The NCAA announced its amendments on Monday, August 12.
“We have been made aware of several current agents who have appropriately represented former student-athletes in their professional quest and whom the National Basketball Players Association has granted waivers of its bachelor’s degree requirement,” the NCAA said in a statement. “While specific individuals were not considered when developing our process, we respect the NBPA’s determination of qualification and have amended our certification criteria.”
According to a release from the NCAA, student-athletes now can be represented by agents who meet the following requirements:
- Have a bachelor’s degree and/or are currently certified and in good standing with the NBPA.
- Have NBPA certification for a minimum of three consecutive years.
- Maintain professional liability insurance.
- Complete the NCAA qualification exam.
- Pay the required fees.
Rich Paul remains undefeated, and the new guidelines will only help the players receive the best guidance and advice in the long run. As Rich Paul said in an op-ed with The Athletic: “Does anyone really believe a four-year degree is what separates an ethical person from a con artist?”
Paul, the founder of Klutch Sports, represents LeBron, Anthony Davis, and a number of other big-name NBA stars.
Because of Paul, there has been a shift in dynamics that brings power to the players, who have been more open about demanding trades to land at their preferred destinations. Now that the NCAA has altered the rule that could have prevented him from working with potential high draft picks right out of college, there will be no slowing down the most powerful agent in the game.
