The law firm involved in a notable $2.8 billion antitrust settlement concerning the NCAA and the largest college athletics conferences has criticized potential executive orders associated with former Alabama football coach Nick Saban and the Trump administration. On Monday, the Hagens Berman Law Firm released a statement calling Saban’s suggestions regarding an executive order “fun and useless.” Steve Berman, the managing partner, labeled both Saban’s and Trump’s discussions as “not necessary.”
Berman pointed out that during his coaching tenure, Saban initially resisted the idea of paying college athletes, advocating instead for restrictions through federal law for some level of oversight. Meanwhile, he earned tens of millions, previously holding the title of the highest-paid college coach. He commented, “Coach Saban and Trump’s lengthy talks about executive orders and other meddling are just unnecessary self-interest. College athletes have long championed significant changes and are now reaping the benefits from the NIL deals.”
The firm emphasized that athletes have been able to gain advantages from NIL without needing an executive order from the White House, arguing that it has empowered them to earn income independently.
Following a meeting with Saban, Trump was reportedly contemplating an executive order to manage the names, images, and likeness rights of college athletes. Reports emerged highlighting Saban’s desire for reform rather than a complete halt to athlete payments.
Previously, during an appearance on Fox News, Saban had urged Congress to intervene to promote fairness across the board. He expressed concerns that the current system disproportionately favors those capable of offering the highest payments. Saban believed the NCAA could address these issues while suggesting that Congress should establish national standards to mitigate legal risks associated with differences in state laws.
He remarked, “I’m not an expert on the legal aspects, but there’s a clearly stated need for federal guidelines that would help enforce rules.” Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville, a Republican, echoed this sentiment, hoping for regulatory assistance from Trump.
During an Alabama alumni event, Saban introduced Trump, who praised the university’s athletics program, calling it a breeding ground for legends.
