UNLV NIL

[Doneoett]

The universe of name, image and likeness continues to alter college athletics at every turn. NIL has changed the game.

It’s mostly an incentive by collectives to raise money for the purpose of enticing recruits to sign with a respective school.

Some of these deals have reached astronomical levels, with the best of the best athletes receiving millions of dollars.

But that might change if and when the House vs. NCAA antitrust case is decided, if schools are allowed a revenue-sharing system to compensate athletes directly.

It could also have important implications for the future of NIL. It could include a central clearinghouse to review and assess all NIL deals. But make no mistake, NIL in some form or fashion is here to stay.

And it could remain the same for years depending on the appeals certain to come with the House decision.

Friends of UNILV is the collective for the Rebels, the outside arm that raises money for the purpose of earning the interest of recruits who have UNLV on their list of prospective schools.

Bill Paulos leads the NIL efforts for UNLV. The Review-Journal recently chatted with Paulos about his role and that of NIL at the university.

RJ: What is the overall goal for NIL specific to UNLV?

Paulos: The goal of UNLV NIL is to get into a power conference like the Big 12. That’s the goal. If we want to do that, we need to act like a power conference school. That’s UNLV’s goal. That’s my goal. That’s everyone’s goal here.

But these power conferences need to know we can raise money for NIL, that we can compete at that level.

RJ: Is that plausible? What have you seen in your numbers to make you believe that level of resources can be raised?

Paulos: It is absolutely plausible. We’re having more success this year than we’ve ever had. Major companies in town are supporting us. And in order for us to get coaches of the stature of (Dan Mullen in football and Josh Pastner in basketball), we had to assure them we could raise NIL money so they could compete.

If you go out and hire a coach today, the first question isn’t necessarily how much money they’re going to make. It’s about how strong is your NIL.

RJ: How have you been selling your top programs to donors?

Paulos: Basically, it’s like this: You may not like what NIL is today, but we need to explain to everybody it’s going to morph into a much better situation. It’s giving back to the university through the athletic department.

We know in the 1980s and 1990s UNLV became UNLV because of Jerry Tarkanian and Runnin’ Rebel basketball. The last two years, when we had incredible national exposure with our football team, our registrations with the university went up 6 percent. That’s real money.

Should we get into a conference like the Big 12, we now get millions of more a year through television revenues, and Las Vegas gets a tremendous amount of exposure. That’s what we sell — it’s a major economic benefit to Las Vegas and UNLV.

RJ: What in your mind will change with NIL at UNLV should the House vs. NCAA settlement end with schools being permitted to provide direct financial payments to student-athletes?

Paulos: It’s not going to eradicate the use of outside funds and collectives like NIL in order to help the university raise money. It will just help schools monitor their payments to report outside NIL agreements. There will be more regulation when it comes to NIL deals. I believe you’re not going to see the $5 million quarterback for much longer.

RJ: You earlier said it was a goal to double the $1.5 million raised for basketball last season and to increase the $3 million for football. Will you make those numbers?

Paulos: We haven’t missed yet, and we don’t intend on missing this year. There is new wealth in Las Vegas, small companies that are doing very well. We’re getting more and more people interested in helping UNLV succeed.

You look at stories of (Power Four) conference teams, when their athletic departments became the front porch of their universities. They’ve all exceeded their wildest expectations, That’s our hope — 100 percent.

This is a passion for me and, quite frankly, those we sit down with and ask to donate. They’re doing it to get recognition for the university and to get us into a power conference, Which would mean so much to the city as a whole.

RJ: Has the NIL collective at UNLV gone the way you first imagined?

Paulos: It’s hard to believe, but this is our fifth year raising funds. We have doubled our fundraising almost every single year, and this year we’ll triple it. We give to all sports — any sport that signs up with the collective. We’ll help anybody. You tell me where the money goes. I don’t tell you.

We’re the most attractive person at the dance right now. If you want your athletic department to be successful and competitive and keep moving forward, there is no choice. You have to pay. The horse has left the barn. This is here to stay.

If you want something to happen like UNLV getting into a power conference, this is what you’re going to have to do.

 

[rebel5280]

I like the part about “small companies around the valley” are getting into the NIL swing of things. If that becomes say local casinos, you can forget the days of UNLV having so much annual turnover with recruits, we will be able to pay to keep more of them. It sounds like the UNLV NIL is doing just fine for a G5 and if we maintain football success and pair that with some gains in men’s basketball, lookout Big12!

 

[bcvegaspt2]

Love his enthusiasm!
Sounds like he's a better salesman that Pastner is (I mean this as a compliment).

 

[Rebel1986]

The universe of name, image and likeness continues to alter college athletics at every turn. NIL has changed the game.

It’s mostly an incentive by collectives to raise money for the purpose of enticing recruits to sign with a respective school.

Some of these deals have reached astronomical levels, with the best of the best athletes receiving millions of dollars.

But that might change if and when the House vs. NCAA antitrust case is decided, if schools are allowed a revenue-sharing system to compensate athletes directly.

It could also have important implications for the future of NIL. It could include a central clearinghouse to review and assess all NIL deals. But make no mistake, NIL in some form or fashion is here to stay.

And it could remain the same for years depending on the appeals certain to come with the House decision.

Friends of UNILV is the collective for the Rebels, the outside arm that raises money for the purpose of earning the interest of recruits who have UNLV on their list of prospective schools.

Bill Paulos leads the NIL efforts for UNLV. The Review-Journal recently chatted with Paulos about his role and that of NIL at the university.

RJ: What is the overall goal for NIL specific to UNLV?

Paulos: The goal of UNLV NIL is to get into a power conference like the Big 12. That’s the goal. If we want to do that, we need to act like a power conference school. That’s UNLV’s goal. That’s my goal. That’s everyone’s goal here.

But these power conferences need to know we can raise money for NIL, that we can compete at that level.

RJ: Is that plausible? What have you seen in your numbers to make you believe that level of resources can be raised?

Paulos: It is absolutely plausible. We’re having more success this year than we’ve ever had. Major companies in town are supporting us. And in order for us to get coaches of the stature of (Dan Mullen in football and Josh Pastner in basketball), we had to assure them we could raise NIL money so they could compete.

If you go out and hire a coach today, the first question isn’t necessarily how much money they’re going to make. It’s about how strong is your NIL.

RJ: How have you been selling your top programs to donors?

Paulos: Basically, it’s like this: You may not like what NIL is today, but we need to explain to everybody it’s going to morph into a much better situation. It’s giving back to the university through the athletic department.

We know in the 1980s and 1990s UNLV became UNLV because of Jerry Tarkanian and Runnin’ Rebel basketball. The last two years, when we had incredible national exposure with our football team, our registrations with the university went up 6 percent. That’s real money.

Should we get into a conference like the Big 12, we now get millions of more a year through television revenues, and Las Vegas gets a tremendous amount of exposure. That’s what we sell — it’s a major economic benefit to Las Vegas and UNLV.

RJ: What in your mind will change with NIL at UNLV should the House vs. NCAA settlement end with schools being permitted to provide direct financial payments to student-athletes?

Paulos: It’s not going to eradicate the use of outside funds and collectives like NIL in order to help the university raise money. It will just help schools monitor their payments to report outside NIL agreements. There will be more regulation when it comes to NIL deals. I believe you’re not going to see the $5 million quarterback for much longer.

RJ: You earlier said it was a goal to double the $1.5 million raised for basketball last season and to increase the $3 million for football. Will you make those numbers?

Paulos: We haven’t missed yet, and we don’t intend on missing this year. There is new wealth in Las Vegas, small companies that are doing very well. We’re getting more and more people interested in helping UNLV succeed.

You look at stories of (Power Four) conference teams, when their athletic departments became the front porch of their universities. They’ve all exceeded their wildest expectations, That’s our hope — 100 percent.

This is a passion for me and, quite frankly, those we sit down with and ask to donate. They’re doing it to get recognition for the university and to get us into a power conference, Which would mean so much to the city as a whole.

RJ: Has the NIL collective at UNLV gone the way you first imagined?

Paulos: It’s hard to believe, but this is our fifth year raising funds. We have doubled our fundraising almost every single year, and this year we’ll triple it. We give to all sports — any sport that signs up with the collective. We’ll help anybody. You tell me where the money goes. I don’t tell you.

We’re the most attractive person at the dance right now. If you want your athletic department to be successful and competitive and keep moving forward, there is no choice. You have to pay. The horse has left the barn. This is here to stay.

If you want something to happen like UNLV getting into a power conference, this is what you’re going to have to do.

A good report. It does sound like there is an expectation that a lot more money can be brought into the program, but more important, the belief that this out of control NIL will ultimately settle down!

 

[Bullmastiff 1]

I like the part about “small companies around the valley” are getting into the NIL swing of things. If that becomes say local casinos, you can forget the days of UNLV having so much annual turnover with recruits, we will be able to pay to keep more of them. It sounds like the UNLV NIL is doing just fine for a G5 and if we maintain football success and pair that with some gains in men’s basketball, lookout Big12!

Looking around college football, UNLV's NIL collective is as strong or stronger than just about anybody in the G5 including schools in the new PAC.

I get the desire of people wanting UNLV in the PAC. The 'prestige' of being in a better conference. But ultimately NIL rules the day now and as long as UNLVs NIL collective remains competitive, like you said, Rebs should be able to continue to attract and retain solid talent out of the portal.

PAC, AAC, MWC whatever. I'm not sure it matters anymore in the 'group of' conferences. It's all power conference scraps.

Continue to build your brand. Improve facilities. Continue the football trajectory. Get basketball back on the tracks. Make yourself as attractive to a power conference as possible and let the chips fall where they may.

Its likely none of this PAC/MWC realingment will matter in a a few years anyway.

We're headed for more turmoil and shuffling of pieces.

I doubt any of it looks the same in the next five years.

 

[Gator 82]

Looking around college football, UNLV's NIL collective is as strong or stronger than just about anybody in the G5 including schools in the new PAC.

I get the desire of people wanting UNLV in the PAC. The 'prestige' of being in a better conference. But ultimately NIL rules the day now and as long as UNLVs NIL collective remains competitive, like you said, Rebs should be able to continue to attract and retain solid talent out of the portal.

PAC, AAC, MWC whatever. I'm not sure it matters anymore in the 'group of' conferences. It's all power conference scraps.

Continue to build your brand. Improve facilities. Continue the football trajectory. Get basketball back on the tracks. Make yourself as attractive to a power conference as possible and let the chips fall where they may.

Its likely none of this PAC/MWC realingment will matter in a a few years anyway.

We're headed for more turmoil and shuffling of pieces.

I doubt any of it looks the same in the next five years.

Bottom line is, the nPac needs UNLV a lot more than UNLV needs the nPac. We can afford to be patient and continue to build the program for a potential B12 invite.

 

[RebelinWA]

Looking around college football, UNLV's NIL collective is as strong or stronger than just about anybody in the G5 including schools in the new PAC.

I get the desire of people wanting UNLV in the PAC. The 'prestige' of being in a better conference. But ultimately NIL rules the day now and as long as UNLVs NIL collective remains competitive, like you said, Rebs should be able to continue to attract and retain solid talent out of the portal.

PAC, AAC, MWC whatever. I'm not sure it matters anymore in the 'group of' conferences. It's all power conference scraps.

Continue to build your brand. Improve facilities. Continue the football trajectory. Get basketball back on the tracks. Make yourself as attractive to a power conference as possible and let the chips fall where they may.

Its likely none of this PAC/MWC realingment will matter in a a few years anyway.

We're headed for more turmoil and shuffling of pieces.

I doubt any of it looks the same in the next five years.

The fallout for the settlement for House V NCAA should inform our path forward. It should give us direction on realignment and provide us with a roadmap if conferences decide to expand.

 

[Bullmastiff 1]

Bottom line is, the nPac needs UNLV a lot more than UNLV needs the nPac. We can afford to be patient and continue to build the program for a potential B12 invite.

Pretty much. And if the invite doesn't come, the PAC will still be there or whatever is left of the group of conferences. And UNLV won't have shelled out millions of dollars in exit fees and legal fees to have joined.

 

[dcut03]

I'm for being in the best possible conference and making the most money along the way. I think that the PAC desperately needs us and we can parlay that into joining for free.

We give up any bonuses from the MW, but who knows how much we will actually get. I think the near 25 extra million is a pipedream. It is is really all about the initial up front bonus, since the rest of the money will just be on top of the MW contract, where the PAC's offer will likely be more than that combined amount.

If we get the full 14 mill up front? It might just be more financially beneficial to stay in the MW, at least for the short term. Joining later is possible, but they won't be as desperate and the offer won't be as good.

With money being a premium, it makes sense to find the deal that will give you the most. if the break even point for the PAC is anything less than 3-5 years, I think you have to go with the PAC. Better competition too. With UNLV in the PAC, the new PAC champion is even more in the driver's seat for a playoff berth.

PAC or MW, the end goal is the same and it is the Big 12. That part has nothing to do with it. Both conferences give free passes so that is a non factor.

 

[RebelinWA]

I'm for being in the best possible conference and making the most money along the way. I think that the PAC desperately needs us and we can parlay that into joining for free.

We give up any bonuses from the MW, but who knows how much we will actually get. I think the near 25 extra million is a pipedream. It is is really all about the initial up front bonus, since the rest of the money will just be on top of the MW contract, where the PAC's offer will likely be more than that combined amount.

If we get the full 14 mill up front? It might just be more financially beneficial to stay in the MW, at least for the short term. Joining later is possible, but they won't be as desperate and the offer won't be as good.

With money being a premium, it makes sense to find the deal that will give you the most. if the break even point for the PAC is anything less than 3-5 years, I think you have to go with the PAC. Better competition too. With UNLV in the PAC, the new PAC champion is even more in the driver's seat for a playoff berth.

PAC or MW, the end goal is the same and it is the Big 12. That part has nothing to do with it. Both conferences give free passes so that is a non factor.

I could get behind the Pac paying our exit. But can they afford it? That's a big question mark. If the MW lets us pay over time, then the Pac could do it.

They don't have a P4 for free out clause, at least in the contract that Utah State signed. https://www.usustats.com/goodies/contracts/UtahStatePAC12Contract.pdf

• Utah State would be required to pay $40M in liquidated damages to the PAC-12 if they renege on their commitment to join the conference for any reason before July 1, 2026. The only caveat is that this number would be reduced to $30M if Utah State joined an A4 conference (SEC, Big 12, Big 10, ACC) before that date.

Now, I'm not sure what the fee will be after 01 July 2026. Its not clearly stated. But we can surmise that they wouldn't want to pay to sign us, and then let us walk away for free. They could structure it so that we could owe back the money they spent to get us out of the MW if we bail for a P4. I would be okay with that deal.

To your point though, Big 12 or bust.

 

[Boston Rebel 2]

I could get behind the Pac paying our exit. But can they afford it? That's a big question mark. If the MW lets us pay over time, then the Pac could do it.

They don't have a P4 for free out clause, at least in the contract that Utah State signed. https://www.usustats.com/goodies/contracts/UtahStatePAC12Contract.pdf

• Utah State would be required to pay $40M in liquidated damages to the PAC-12 if they renege on their commitment to join the conference for any reason before July 1, 2026. The only caveat is that this number would be reduced to $30M if Utah State joined an A4 conference (SEC, Big 12, Big 10, ACC) before that date.

Now, I'm not sure what the fee will be after 01 July 2026. Its not clearly stated. But we can surmise that they wouldn't want to pay to sign us, and then let us walk away for free. They could structure it so that we could owe back the money they spent to get us out of the MW if we bail for a P4. I would be okay with that deal.

To your point though, Big 12 or bust.

lol did Utah State really need the A4 clause in there? I would be sure no problem. In fact, we’ll pay you $30M if you get invited into the SEC.

 

[RebelinWA]

lol did Utah State really need the A4 clause in there? I would be sure no problem. In fact, we’ll pay you $30M if you get invited into the SEC.

No, but the same day this was sent out to them, we got it too. I imagine that with the difference of payout amounts, its the same contract everyone else got.

 

[rebel5280]

I could get behind the Pac paying our exit. But can they afford it? That's a big question mark. If the MW lets us pay over time, then the Pac could do it.

They don't have a P4 for free out clause, at least in the contract that Utah State signed. https://www.usustats.com/goodies/contracts/UtahStatePAC12Contract.pdf

• Utah State would be required to pay $40M in liquidated damages to the PAC-12 if they renege on their commitment to join the conference for any reason before July 1, 2026. The only caveat is that this number would be reduced to $30M if Utah State joined an A4 conference (SEC, Big 12, Big 10, ACC) before that date.

Now, I'm not sure what the fee will be after 01 July 2026. Its not clearly stated. But we can surmise that they wouldn't want to pay to sign us, and then let us walk away for free. They could structure it so that we could owe back the money they spent to get us out of the MW if we bail for a P4. I would be okay with that deal.

To your point though, Big 12 or bust.

This!

 

[Bullmastiff 1]

Bottom line is, the nPac needs UNLV a lot more than UNLV needs the nPac. We can afford to be patient and continue to build the program for a potential B12 invite.

The new PAC calling itself the PAC can be likened to that dude that got kicked out of Guns and Roses, continuing to tour as Guns and Roses with a couple dudes that played in a G n R cover band called Paradise City.

 

[Meister_Rebel]

I read that UTEP is transitioning away from their NIL Collective called "Goldmine Collective. They are bringing it in-house and under the UTEP donation athletic department effort called Talent Acquisition Fund (TAF). That TAF sounds like our RAF. Has anyone heard if UNLV was going in this direction. I've read previously that could happen but, haven't heard anything definitive.

From the following UTEP webpage they are actually encouraging people to switch from their NIL Collective to the new TAF. I would think by doing that they could make donations tax deductible. I don't know.

Talent Acquisition Fund

Talent Acquisition Fund

utepminers.com

 

[Rebel1986]

I read that UTEP is transitioning away from their NIL Collective called "Goldmine Collective. They are bringing it in-house and under the UTEP donation athletic department effort called Talent Acquisition Fund (TAF). That TAF sounds like our RAF. Has anyone heard if UNLV was going in this direction. I've read previously that could happen but, haven't heard anything definitive.

From the following UTEP webpage they are actually encouraging people to switch from their NIL Collective to the new TAF. I would think by doing that they could make donations tax deductible. I don't know.

Talent Acquisition Fund

Talent Acquisition Fund

utepminers.com

Providing millions in salary to an employee/employees fund is not tax deductible.

 

[oneepstein]

Pretty much. And if the invite doesn't come, the PAC will still be there or whatever is left of the group of conferences. And UNLV won't have shelled out millions of dollars in exit fees and legal fees to have joined.

100%

The long and the short of it is that the ONLY thing that matters right now is getting to an A4… period. And the reality is that IF that’s going to happen it’s going to happen in the next 3-5 years window.

If it doesn’t happen for UNLV in that window then we will absolutely be in the PAC anyway.

No sense in handicapping yourself within that window.

 

[dcut03]

I could get behind the Pac paying our exit. But can they afford it? That's a big question mark. If the MW lets us pay over time, then the Pac could do it.

They don't have a P4 for free out clause, at least in the contract that Utah State signed. https://www.usustats.com/goodies/contracts/UtahStatePAC12Contract.pdf

• Utah State would be required to pay $40M in liquidated damages to the PAC-12 if they renege on their commitment to join the conference for any reason before July 1, 2026. The only caveat is that this number would be reduced to $30M if Utah State joined an A4 conference (SEC, Big 12, Big 10, ACC) before that date.

Now, I'm not sure what the fee will be after 01 July 2026. Its not clearly stated. But we can surmise that they wouldn't want to pay to sign us, and then let us walk away for free. They could structure it so that we could owe back the money they spent to get us out of the MW if we bail for a P4. I would be okay with that deal.

To your point though, Big 12 or bust.

They have since announced or reported that the new PAC would not have fees for P4. It was a response to the MW having that clause. So that was announced after the contract was signed.

That contract was really to keep the 5 that announced leaving intact until they can get an official conference.

Will that truly be the case? Well it isn't in writing yet, so there is some risk. But say UNLV were to leave for the PAC after mediation, they would only do that if a A4 free pass existed.

100%

The long and the short of it is that the ONLY thing that matters right now is getting to an A4… period. And the reality is that IF that’s going to happen it’s going to happen in the next 3-5 years window.

If it doesn’t happen for UNLV in that window then we will absolutely be in the PAC anyway.

No sense in handicapping yourself within that window.

Here is the thing though. UNLV has all of the power now, in both conferences. The PAC desperately needs an 8th, and UNLV would make them whole, but also probably raise the value of the contract. All other options for the PAC would lower the value considerably.

I am sure we could get the majority of the fees paid if not all. They have offered 6 mil in the past. I cannot see the exit fees being any more than 11 million. We will see though. But it would be a big win for the PAC if they brought on UNLV now. They secure another top football G6 in the west. It would make sense to bring us on with no fee for us.

In 3-5 years? They would would not be desperate. They wouldn't need us. We would be on the hook for all of the fees, and I would imagine that the MW would make leaving the next contract even more difficult. They have set the standard of unreasonable exit fees already, and I don't see them doing anything other that making it more difficult in the future. All schools other than UNLV and AFA desperately need the MW to survive, so I can see them jacking up the fees to protect the other schools.

It all really depends on these mediations. How much of the poaching fees will stick being the big factor here. How much of a lump sum would UNLV get? Would that carry them in the positive over the next 3 years? It definitely won't be enough to cover exit fees later. And with a free move to the PAC now, I don't think it will take more than 2 years to break even on that lump sum.

I really don't see much of a "handicap".

The other part of these mediations for the PAC is how much they will have to spend now. If the poaching fees get significantly reduced, they will have more capital to bring UNLV on.

My prediction Poaching fees hold up 100% UNLV stays. Poaching fees get reduced to 50% or less, UNLV goes to the PAC. between 50-100%? Hard to say, it may also depend on the exit fee negotiation portion. The standard is 2x the base media value. Which technically is on 7.2 million dollars. It could very well be reduced to that.

Of course ONLY if the P4 pass is true on the PAC side.

 

[oneepstein]

They have since announced or reported that the new PAC would not have fees for P4. It was a response to the MW having that clause. So that was announced after the contract was signed.

That contract was really to keep the 5 that announced leaving intact until they can get an official conference.

Will that truly be the case? Well it isn't in writing yet, so there is some risk. But say UNLV were to leave for the PAC after mediation, they would only do that if a A4 free pass existed.



Here is the thing though. UNLV has all of the power now, in both conferences. The PAC desperately needs an 8th, and UNLV would make them whole, but also probably raise the value of the contract. All other options for the PAC would lower the value considerably.

I am sure we could get the majority of the fees paid if not all. They have offered 6 mil in the past. I cannot see the exit fees being any more than 11 million. We will see though. But it would be a big win for the PAC if they brought on UNLV now. They secure another top football G6 in the west. It would make sense to bring us on with no fee for us.

In 3-5 years? They would would not be desperate. They wouldn't need us. We would be on the hook for all of the fees, and I would imagine that the MW would make leaving the next contract even more difficult. They have set the standard of unreasonable exit fees already, and I don't see them doing anything other that making it more difficult in the future. All schools other than UNLV and AFA desperately need the MW to survive, so I can see them jacking up the fees to protect the other schools.

It all really depends on these mediations. How much of the poaching fees will stick being the big factor here. How much of a lump sum would UNLV get? Would that carry them in the positive over the next 3 years? It definitely won't be enough to cover exit fees later. And with a free move to the PAC now, I don't think it will take more than 2 years to break even on that lump sum.

I really don't see much of a "handicap".

The other part of these mediations for the PAC is how much they will have to spend now. If the poaching fees get significantly reduced, they will have more capital to bring UNLV on.

My prediction Poaching fees hold up 100% UNLV stays. Poaching fees get reduced to 50% or less, UNLV goes to the PAC. between 50-100%? Hard to say, it may also depend on the exit fee negotiation portion. The standard is 2x the base media value. Which technically is on 7.2 million dollars. It could very well be reduced to that.

Of course ONLY if the P4 pass is true on the PAC side.

Lots of “what ifs” and things we don’t know unfortunately. Could there be a scenario that makes going to the PAC now make sense? Absolutely.

I don’t know what that is, but it could be there. Based on what we do know I think the current path makes the most sense. Right now I think the A4 exemption is #1 and the additional money is #2.

 

[Bullmastiff 1]

They have since announced or reported that the new PAC would not have fees for P4. It was a response to the MW having that clause. So that was announced after the contract was signed.

That contract was really to keep the 5 that announced leaving intact until they can get an official conference.

Will that truly be the case? Well it isn't in writing yet, so there is some risk. But say UNLV were to leave for the PAC after mediation, they would only do that if a A4 free pass existed.



Here is the thing though. UNLV has all of the power now, in both conferences. The PAC desperately needs an 8th, and UNLV would make them whole, but also probably raise the value of the contract. All other options for the PAC would lower the value considerably.

I am sure we could get the majority of the fees paid if not all. They have offered 6 mil in the past. I cannot see the exit fees being any more than 11 million. We will see though. But it would be a big win for the PAC if they brought on UNLV now. They secure another top football G6 in the west. It would make sense to bring us on with no fee for us.

In 3-5 years? They would would not be desperate. They wouldn't need us. We would be on the hook for all of the fees, and I would imagine that the MW would make leaving the next contract even more difficult. They have set the standard of unreasonable exit fees already, and I don't see them doing anything other that making it more difficult in the future. All schools other than UNLV and AFA desperately need the MW to survive, so I can see them jacking up the fees to protect the other schools.

It all really depends on these mediations. How much of the poaching fees will stick being the big factor here. How much of a lump sum would UNLV get? Would that carry them in the positive over the next 3 years? It definitely won't be enough to cover exit fees later. And with a free move to the PAC now, I don't think it will take more than 2 years to break even on that lump sum.

I really don't see much of a "handicap".

The other part of these mediations for the PAC is how much they will have to spend now. If the poaching fees get significantly reduced, they will have more capital to bring UNLV on.

My prediction Poaching fees hold up 100% UNLV stays. Poaching fees get reduced to 50% or less, UNLV goes to the PAC. between 50-100%? Hard to say, it may also depend on the exit fee negotiation portion. The standard is 2x the base media value. Which technically is on 7.2 million dollars. It could very well be reduced to that.

Of course ONLY if the P4 pass is true on the PAC side.

They haven't added an 8th because it would be bad optics.

You can't say 'Oh poor us look how these poaching fees have stopped our ability to compete' then go out and finalize your conference anyway.

 

[dcut03]

They haven't added an 8th because it would be bad optics.

You can't say 'Oh poor us look how these poaching fees have stopped our ability to compete' then go out and finalize your conference anyway.

They haven't added an 8th because they want UNLV. They want to see if what they can afford after this mediation plays out.

They haven't added an 8th because they really don't want Texas State or Sac State, both would have bad optics and tank their contract. They may end up going that route, but they are waiting to see if they can afford something better first.

 

[dcut03]

Lots of “what ifs” and things we don’t know unfortunately. Could there be a scenario that makes going to the PAC now make sense? Absolutely.

I don’t know what that is, but it could be there. Based on what we do know I think the current path makes the most sense. Right now I think the A4 exemption is #1 and the additional money is #2.

Those "what ifs" are based off of precedence of every other Exit fee negotiation. Still unknown for sure, and the poaching fee is unprecedented so I don't think anyone knows how that will play out.

But I don't think anyone is expecting to get 25 mil from staying.

 

[Bullmastiff 1]

They haven't added an 8th because they want UNLV. They want to see if what they can afford after this mediation plays out.

They haven't added an 8th because they really don't want Texas State or Sac State, both would have bad optics and tank their contract. They may end up going that route, but they are waiting to see if they can afford something better first.

SAC State would be considered a team in 'transition' and would not meet the criteria for an 8th full member unless given a waiver. They can't go to a bowl until 2nd season in FBS.

They knew they were litigating this stuff prior to inviting Memphis, Tulane and reportedly other AAC teams. These lawsuits aren't drawn up over night. So why wasn't money an issue then but it is now.

Is it possible they said here is worst case scenario if we lose litigation so here's what you can propose to Memphis and Tulane? Sure which resulted in a low ball offer with wildly optimistic media estimates. Not exactly the smartest play on their part.

Reality is to this point. After the original four jumped. The PAC has offered 4 school we know of for sure and potentially 2 others in USF and UTSA. They've been told to kick rocks by 3 of 4 (possibly as many as 5 of 6) schools they've offered.

Let them beg..

 

[dcut03]

SAC State would be considered a team in 'transition' and would not meet the criteria for an 8th full member unless given a waiver. They can't go to a bowl until 2nd season in FBS.

They knew they were litigating this stuff prior to inviting Memphis, Tulane and reportedly other AAC teams. These lawsuits aren't drawn up over night. So why wasn't money an issue then but it is now.

Is it possible they said here is worst case scenario if we lose litigation so here's what you can propose to Memphis and Tulane? Sure which resulted in a low ball offer with wildly optimistic media estimates. Not exactly the smartest play on their part.

Reality is to this point. After the original four jumped. The PAC gas offered 4 school we know of for sure and potentially 2 others in USF and UTSA. They've been told to kick rocks by 3 of 4 (possibly as many as 5 of 6) schools they've offered.

Let them beg..

UNLV waiting has only helped UNLV so it seems. Especially since the PAC hasn't found an 8th. As soon as they do, then UNLV loses all the leverage.

It is also possible that if UNLV leaves say after mediation, they could be considered a different negotiation though and might have to pay more exit fees. There is power in numbers with exit fee negotiation and UNLV may not get the same deal as the traitorous 5. An example of this was SMU from the AAC. Didn't get the same deal as the other 4. But they had less than 1 year notice and don't care about money.

Truth is, how this has played out doesn't mean squat. If UNLV can find themselves in the PAC, a objectively more competitive conference, for likely 4+ million more per year, without upfront costs they should do it. ( assuming a A4 free pass).

It will be easier to "make noise" in the PAC vs the MW. Simple as that.

No P4 free pass though, you have to pass. That is for sure. That is the biggest dealbreaker.

Well actually us signing our GOR could be the biggest dealbreaker. But it at least seems that the PAC still thinks they have a shot at UNLV .

 

[Bullmastiff 1]

UNLV waiting has only helped UNLV so it seems. Especially since the PAC hasn't found an 8th. As soon as they do, then UNLV loses all the leverage.

It is also possible that if UNLV leaves say after mediation, they could be considered a different negotiation though and might have to pay more exit fees. There is power in numbers with exit fee negotiation and UNLV may not get the same deal as the traitorous 5. An example of this was SMU from the AAC. Didn't get the same deal as the other 4. But they had less than 1 year notice and don't care about money.

Truth is, how this has played out doesn't mean squat. If UNLV can find themselves in the PAC, a objectively more competitive conference, for likely 4+ million more per year, without upfront costs they should do it. ( assuming a A4 free pass).

It will be easier to "make noise" in the PAC vs the MW. Simple as that.

No P4 free pass though, you have to pass. That is for sure. That is the biggest dealbreaker.

Well actually us signing our GOR could be the biggest dealbreaker. But it at least seems that the PAC still thinks they have a shot at UNLV .

Here's how the PAC gets UNLV.

Gloria owes UNLV what 25 million?

Air Force same thing?

PAC 'owes' MWC like 150 million.

I think it's fair to say it gets negotiated down.

PAC offers MWC 70 million.

MWC keeps UNLV 25 million is gone off the top. So Gloria has 50 million.

PAC says here's 70 mil UNLV walks for free.

Sure in that scenario...Maybe.

Gloria has 70 mil war chest now. Adds NDSU and SAC State easily for significantly less than what it would take to keep UNLV. Plus can offer everyone left in conference a little sweetener to invest back into programs.

UNLV isn't paying 20-30 million in legal and exit fees to join a G6 conference to make 4 million a year over 5-6 years. You'd be netting next to nothing because you're paying off debt. It makes zero fiscal sense.

 

[dcut03]

Here's how the PAC gets UNLV.

Gloria owes UNLV what 25 million?

Air Force same thing?

PAC 'owes' MWC like 150 million.

I think it's fair to say it gets negotiated down.

PAC offers MWC 70 million.

MWC keeps UNLV 25 million is gone off the top. So Gloria has 50 million.

PAC says here's 70 mil UNLV walks for free.

Sure in that scenario...Maybe.

Gloria has 70 mil war chest now. Adds NDSU and SAC State easily for significantly less than what it would take to keep UNLV. Plus can offer everyone left in conference a little sweetener to invest back into programs.

UNLV isn't paying 20-30 million in legal and exit fees to join a G6 conference to make 4 million a year over 5-6 years. You'd be netting next to nothing because you're paying off debt. It makes zero fiscal sense.

A couple of things, technically the PAC "owes" 55 million, the exiting schools "owe" the rest. We don't know how much the PAC is helping for the traitorous 5.

Lumping poaching fees and exit fees into 1 negotiation isn't great for the MW. I don't think it the PAC would just offer half for all of them. They are going to argue that the MW is trying to double dip. So the first mediation will likely be the the if the poaching fees are valid/fair at all. That will likely be handled first. After that is cleared up, I think the exit fees will get negotiated like they always do, likely using recent precedent at what a "fair" amount truly is. It is also very possible that whatever is settle with poaching fees could still influence the decision on where the exit fees are settled at. If the "double dipping" argument gets any traction. This again is where a combined mediation could hurt the MW.

If they were decided to the mediated separately, I think the MW would essentially get more out of it, though more expensive with legal fees.

There is no way that UNLV would pay 20-30 in legal and exit fees. I think that the exit fees would start at 7-11 million, and could be less with the poaching fees possibly influencing where the exit fees end up. Again this is purely off recent precedent. AAC's exiting 4 for being the closest comp.

Given the PAC's desperation, I think they easily offer to pay UNLV's fees outright, it may end up being very little more than what they offered previously. Especially if they get a big reduction in poaching fees.

Yes UNLV, would have legal fees for their own negotiation, though that could be very easy because these mediations will give the most valid precedent. The har part is getting out of the GOR. Which is why I thought signing it when we did was a mistake. That probably would be the biggest hurdle at this point, and may just end the whole idea. But at least it seems like the PAC has not given up on UNLV. So who knows.

 

[RBMAN]

Have the leaving schools even served paperwork to officially leave the conference? I believe that the deadline is coming up in a matter of days so that could throw a wrench in all the conversations and plans. Maybe they are hoping for a quick resolution on the mediation. Where would the MWC be if all the schools decided not to leave considering they already filled their spots?

 

[dcut03]

Have the leaving schools even served paperwork to officially leave the conference? I believe that the deadline is coming up in a matter of days so that could throw a wrench in all the conversations and plans. Maybe they are hoping for a quick resolution on the mediation. Where would the MWC be if all the schools decided not to leave considering they already filled their spots?

It is sometime this summer, but it may be as late as August or before the next school year begins.

I doubt these mediations last months, probably will settle within 2 weeks at the most, you would think.

 

[Meister_Rebel]

A couple of things, technically the PAC "owes" 55 million, the exiting schools "owe" the rest. We don't know how much the PAC is helping for the traitorous 5.

Lumping poaching fees and exit fees into 1 negotiation isn't great for the MW. I don't think it the PAC would just offer half for all of them. They are going to argue that the MW is trying to double dip. So the first mediation will likely be the the if the poaching fees are valid/fair at all. That will likely be handled first. After that is cleared up, I think the exit fees will get negotiated like they always do, likely using recent precedent at what a "fair" amount truly is. It is also very possible that whatever is settle with poaching fees could still influence the decision on where the exit fees are settled at. If the "double dipping" argument gets any traction. This again is where a combined mediation could hurt the MW.

If they were decided to the mediated separately, I think the MW would essentially get more out of it, though more expensive with legal fees.

There is no way that UNLV would pay 20-30 in legal and exit fees. I think that the exit fees would start at 7-11 million, and could be less with the poaching fees possibly influencing where the exit fees end up. Again this is purely off recent precedent. AAC's exiting 4 for being the closest comp.

Given the PAC's desperation, I think they easily offer to pay UNLV's fees outright, it may end up being very little more than what they offered previously. Especially if they get a big reduction in poaching fees.

Yes UNLV, would have legal fees for their own negotiation, though that could be very easy because these mediations will give the most valid precedent. The har part is getting out of the GOR. Which is why I thought signing it when we did was a mistake. That probably would be the biggest hurdle at this point, and may just end the whole idea. But at least it seems like the PAC has not given up on UNLV. So who knows.

It's been reported that there is one mediator and two different rooms separating the negotiations. The mediator is actually going back and forth between rooms when needed. Apparently they are keeping the two items (law suit issues) apart. That's all fine and dandy I just want our money.

Just pointing out that both the poaching and exit fees mediations are going on simultaneously.

 

[dcut03]

It's been reported that their is one mediator and two different rooms separating the negotiations. The mediator is actually going back and forth between rooms when needed. Apparently they are keeping the two items (law suit issues) apart. That's all fine and dandy I just want our money.

Just pointing out that both the poaching and exit fees mediations are going on simultaneously.

I have not heard that before. That makes sense and is good for the MW.

Same mediator though, so I can see how making the argument that the poaching and exit fees basically the same could create some influence.

 

[bcvegaspt2]

I have not heard that before. That makes sense and is good for the MW.

Same mediator though, so I can see how making the argument that the poaching and exit fees basically the same could create some influence.

Does having the same mediator sound like a bad idea to anyone else, or is it just me?
Do the conferences save money by employing only one?

I don’t see the reason, even for “efficiency.” There’s no way that both topics don’t get mixed together despite being separate issues.

 

[dcut03]

Does having the same mediator sound like a bad idea to anyone else, or is it just me?
Do the conferences save money by employing only one?

I don’t see the reason, even for “efficiency.” There’s no way that both topics don’t get mixed together despite being separate issues.

The MW should have pushed hard to keep these 2 things separate. So separate rooms is nice and all, but same mediator isn't great. Saving some money on lawyers is great and all, but if the poaching fees get drastically reduced because they can be lumped as additional exit fees.

Unless the MW do not think they have a strong legal argument with the poaching fees ( which counters everything they have said publically), and are cutting their losses early.

 

[Meister_Rebel]

The MW should have pushed hard to keep these 2 things separate. So separate rooms is nice and all, but same mediator isn't great. Saving some money on lawyers is great and all, but if the poaching fees get drastically reduced because they can be lumped as additional exit fees.

Unless the MW do not think they have a strong legal argument with the poaching fees ( which counters everything they have said publically), and are cutting their losses early.

I would think the MWC will still have two sets of lawyers. One focused on the Exit Fees and the other focused on the Poaching Fees This is too important for the MWC to skimp on lawyers. Many have thought that the two cases in mediation would get lumped together but, I don't think that is possible. The Pac12 case is only with the poaching fees and they can't be part of the exit fee discussion because they aren't a party in the case. That wouldn't make sense. The mediation may be going on simultaneously but, I believe the two cases will have separate settlements. Those are my wishes so let it be done.

 

[Masked_rebel]

It is sometime this summer, but it may be as late as August or before the next school year begins.

I doubt these mediations last months, probably will settle within 2 weeks at the most, you would think.

They have until June 1st to announce their withdrawl if they intend to leave for the 2026 season. After that they become subject to doubling those fees for early withdrawal by not meeting the timely notice requirement... So they have 3 days left to officially file notice and pay the 5000 dollars or they become subject to a 15 million dollar penalty. they really are playing with fire.

 

[dcut03]

They have until June 1st to announce their withdrawl if they intend to leave for the 2026 season. After that they become subject to doubling those fees for early withdrawal by not meeting the timely notice requirement... So they have 3 days left to officially file notice and pay the 5000 dollars or they become subject to a 15 million dollar penalty. they really are playing with fire.

They probably will wait to the last day. They have MW voting rights until then officially.