High school athlete endorsements as part of name, image and likeness proposal sparks debate in Ohio high school sports landscape

Lakota West junior safety Malik Hartford is prepared to capitalize on a name, image and likeness opportunity if it should arise starting in August.

“If NIL was able to come my senior year it would definitely be a big benefit for me,” said Hartford, who verbally committed to play football at The Ohio State University last week. “I have a brand. I have a website. I just have to hold it to myself for now and wait until I’m technically allowed to.”