Livvy Dunne Objects to $2.8B NCAA Settlement, Claims Undervalue

LSU gymnast Livvy Dunne testified against the proposed $2.8 billion House v. NCAA settlement, expressing concerns over the undervaluation of athletes' NIL (name, image, likeness) earnings. Dunne, the highest-earning female athlete in college sports, criticized the settlement's formula for determining damage claims, stating it does not recognize her true value or actual earnings. During the hearing, she highlighted issues with the claims process, noting technical difficulties and a lack of transparency that left many athletes uncertain about their potential compensation. Dunne's objections reflect broader concerns among athletes regarding gender equity and the adequacy of the proposed revenue-sharing model. U.S. District Judge Claudia Wilken, who is set to make a ruling on the settlement, has acknowledged these athlete concerns but indicated that her decision will focus on antitrust law rather than civil rights issues. The outcome of the settlement is crucial, as failure to approve it could lead to a trial that might impose much larger financial liabilities on the NCAA.