Ohio Judge Blocks High School NIL Ban, Enables Statewide Athlete Deals

An Ohio judge has issued a temporary restraining order that blocks the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) from enforcing its ban on high school athletes signing name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. The order, granted by Franklin County Common Pleas Court Judge Jaiza Page, applies statewide and remains in effect until at least December 15, when a preliminary injunction hearing is scheduled. The ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by Jamier Brown, a top high school football recruit committed to Ohio State, who claims he lost over $100,000 in potential NIL earnings due to the ban. Ohio is one of only six states that currently prohibit high school athletes from profiting from NIL rights, a restriction that critics argue is outdated and unfair compared to other students who can monetize their name and image. The OHSAA is considering an emergency referendum vote among its member schools on changing the rules to allow NIL compensation. This development marks a significant shift in Ohio's high school sports landscape, aligning it with most other states and expanding financial opportunities for young athletes.