Texas NIL Law 2025: What High School Athletes Need to Know | Hooper Athletics

Published by Hooper Athletics | June 2025

Texas has finally joined the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) game for high school athletes over the age of 17. The move opens up new opportunities for rising stars — but it might not be enough to keep elite talent in-state.

What’s the Law?

As of June 2025, Texas allows athletes aged 17 and up to sign NIL agreements, bringing it closer to states like Georgia, California, and Florida — but with a catch. Those other states already let 16-year-olds or juniors benefit from NIL.

Why Timing Matters

In today’s recruiting landscape, months matter. If a 16-year-old hooper in Dallas gets interest from an out-of-state prep program that offers earlier NIL eligibility and more visibility, she may leave. And once that talent pipeline exits Texas, it's hard to reverse.

Once They Leave, They Don’t Come Back

Top athletes who move out of state in high school often commit to out-of-state colleges — and bring their fanbases, sponsorships, and momentum with them. Texas risks losing not just individual players, but entire recruiting classes and brand loyalty.

What’s the Solution?

If Texas wants to remain competitive:

• Expand NIL access to younger high school athletes

• Protect public-school athletes from being left behind

• Build a local NIL ecosystem so athletes stay, sign, and rise in Texas

💬 “If you build it right, they won’t have to leave.”
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