Reggie Bush is reportedly filing a lawsuit against the NCAA.
Multiple sources claim the former USC running back is set to file a defamation suit against the governing body of college athletics, the result of a statement made by an NCAA spokesperson in 2021.
“Reggie Bush will file a defamation lawsuit against the NCAA tomorrow,” ESPN’s Kyle Bonagura notes. “It stems from a statement issued by an NCAA spokesperson from 2021 that stated Bush was involved in a “pay–for–play arrangement.”
Which Statement Has Reggie Taken Issue With?
The statement in question informed athletes that they were permitted to receive endorsements for their names, images, and likenesses but would not be paid to play. It added that the NCAA has an infractions procedure in place in order to promote fairness in college sports.
“Although college athletes can now receive benefits from their names, images and likenesses through activities like endorsements and appearances, NCAA rules still do not permit pay-for-play type arrangements,” it reads.
“The NCAA infractions process exists to promote fairness in college sports. The rules that govern fair play are voted on, agreed to and expected to be upheld by all NCAA member schools.”
Whether Bush has a case against the NCAA is left to be seen, but he will have plenty of folks on his side, especially given that he was rid of his Heisman, something most fans consider to be unfair.
