The Business of Being a College Athlete

Read Time:3 Minute, 54 Second

TV SERIES REVIEW
The Money Game
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 6 x 45m episodes
Director(s): Drea Cooper
Where To Watch: coming to Prime Video on September 10, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: In an era marked by some of the most significant transformations within collegiate athletics, THE MONEY GAME stands out as a pivotal documentary series chronicling the profound changes brought about by the NCAA's adoption of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) policies. Set against the backdrop of LSU (Louisiana State University)—a titan in collegiate sports known for its record-breaking national championships—the series delves into how this seismic shift impacts its athletes' personal and professional lives.

THE MONEY GAME takes viewers on an engaging journey through the lives of LSU's star athletes, who are at the forefront of leveraging the new NIL policies to reshape their careers and personal brands. Angel Reese, known as "The Bayou Barbie," not only shines on the basketball court but also excels in building a personal brand that resonates with fans and sponsors alike, culminating in her becoming a first-round pick in the WNBA. Olivia Dunne, a gymnast with a massive social media following, transforms her online popularity into significant brand endorsement deals, exemplifying the entrepreneurial spirit encouraged by the NIL changes.

The docuseries doesn't just showcase success stories but also navigates the complexities and strategic decisions athletes like Trace Young face, who transferred to LSU to maximize his visibility and market potential. Flau'jae Johnson expands her skillset beyond basketball, venturing into the music industry and signing significant deals, reflecting the multi-dimensional career paths these policies now foster. Alia Armstrong, an elite hurdler, illustrates the balancing act of maintaining athletic competitiveness while managing lucrative endorsements.

THE MONEY GAME also focuses on Jayden Daniels, whose story of winning the Heisman Trophy and becoming a top NFL draft pick embodies what student-athletes can achieve under the new rules. His journey from college to professional athlete highlights NIL policies' profound impact on student-athletes' careers, serving as a beacon for the potential and success that awaits.

Directed by Drea Cooper and backed by a powerhouse production team including LSU alum Shaquille O'Neal, THE MONEY GAME is crafted to resonate well beyond its documentary format. It’s a thoughtful exploration of the intersections between athletics, personal branding, and economics, brought to life with a narrative that’s as informative as riveting.

As the series prepares for its global premiere on Prime Video, it will capture the attention of a diverse audience, reflecting the widespread relevance and fascination with the evolution of college sports. THE MONEY GAME documents these changes and engages in a broader dialogue about the commercialization of amateur athletics and its implications for the future of higher education and sports management.

This series transcends traditional sports documentaries by provoking thoughts about the future of college athletics. It invites viewers to ponder the long-term effects of NIL policies and the emerging business models in sports management. It highlights how LSU remains at the cutting edge of these changes, transforming student-athletes into proactive architects of their futures.

THE MONEY GAME is a compelling narrative capturing a transformative NCAA era. It highlights the adaptability and resilience of figures like Dunne, Reese, Johnson, Young, Armstrong, and Daniels, who navigated and shaped the new college sports landscape. This docuseries is an essential watch for anyone interested in the nexus of education, athletics, and commerce, providing profound insights into how NIL policies are reshaping the collegiate athletic scene.

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[photo courtesy of PRIME VIDEO]

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