Pryor Cashman lawyer Nick Saady authored an article titled “2025: Another Year of Profound Change in Sport” for Sports Business Journal. In the article, Nick analyzes the changes that may occur in sports throughout 2025, from the evolving status of college athletes to high-stakes legal battles and private equity’s growing influence. 

Specifically, Nick examines the ongoing debate over whether college athletes should be classified as employees or independent contractors, highlighting key lawsuits such as Johnson v. NCAA and the NLRB’s misclassification case against USC. He also discusses the NCAA’s $2.78 billion settlement in the House and related class actions, as well as their impact on schools, conferences, and student-athlete compensation. 

Nick explores key developments shaping the sports landscape internationally, including the Premier League’s unprecedented legal battle against Manchester City over financial rule breaches, which could redefine enforcement and governance in global soccer. He also addresses how private equity may play an increasing role in college athletics, as investment firms look to capitalize on NCAA programs and drive further commercialization. Additionally, he forecasts government intervention, with the Trump administration and Congress considering reforms that could significantly alter the regulatory framework of college sports. 

Read the full article here (subscription may be required).