NIL stands for "name, image, and likeness," and refers to the ability of student-athletes to profit from their own name, image, and likeness. In the context of high school sports, NIL refers to the ability of high school student-athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness while maintaining their eligibility.

The rules and regulations surrounding NIL in high school sports vary by state and by athletic association. Some states have passed laws allowing high school student-athletes to participate in NIL activities, while others have not. In Texas, for example, the state legislature has generally prohibited agreements that would allow high school student-athletes to profit from their NIL prior to their enrollment in an institution of higher education.

In general, high school student-athletes are subject to restrictions on their ability to participate in NIL activities. For example, they may be prohibited from wearing a school team uniform or any identifying school insignia while appearing in any advertisement, promotional activity, or endorsement for any commercial product or service. Additionally, schools and coaches may not facilitate NIL deals or act as a students agent or marketing representative.

It is important for high school student-athletes to understand the rules and regulations surrounding NIL in their state and athletic association before engaging in any NIL activities. They may need to complete an education course about NIL before they can participate in NIL deals, and they may need to notify their school principal or athletic director within a certain timeframe of any NIL deals they agree to.