Indiana High Schools Approve NIL; Reject Basketball Shot Clock

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA (May 11, 2026) – The Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) approved the use of NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) deals for student-athletes for the 2026-27 school year but rejected the use of a shot clock in boys and girls varsity basketball.

Indiana is one of the last states in the US to approve the use of NIL deals, according to Athletic Business, and it passed by a 13-5 vote . Alabama, Hawaii, Mississippi and Wyoming are the only states prohibiting high school NIL deals.

The IHSAA chose the term Personal Branding Activities to distinguish the high school model from the college version of NIL. High school students will not be allowed to use their school affiliation or appear in their school uniform during any PBA.

“Unlike the current college system, where schools often play a direct role in NIL compensation, the new rule keeps high schools out of arranging or funding deals for student-athletes,” said Paul Neidig, IHSAA Commissioner. “Instead, it allows students to benefit independently form their school, without using school branding or representing school-sponsored endorsements. It creates a clear distinction between the college model and the educational mission of high school athletics.

“We believe it is far better to be proactive and create thoughtful, education-based guidelines ourselves than to have policies forced upon high school athletics. This approach allows us to protect the values of high school sports while adapting responsibly to a changing landscape.”

Allowable PBA activities for IHSAA students are non-school, non-athletic PBA activities, personal brand development and skills-based services. Prohibited PBA activities that would result in ineligibility include school representation, activities related to gambling, alcohol, tobacco, cannabis or other illegal or banned substances, instructional services or private training or coaching and recruitment-related activities.

A proposal by the Indiana Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) to implement a 35-second shot clock for boys and girls varsity basketball games starting in the 2028-29 season was rejected by a 17-1 vote. The IBCA surveyed its membership and 68% voted in favor of using a shot clock. However, 245 school administrators were opposed to a shot clock and only 79 were in favor.