John Calipari praises Kentucky name, image, likeness measure

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University of Kentucky men's basketball coach John Calipari likes the strategy state lawmakers are drawing up to regulate name, image and likeness compensation for college athletes.

The coach of the powerhouse basketball program told the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday that the bill offers a "model" approach, providing flexibility to respond to the still-evolving issue.

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Calipari and UK athletic director Mitch Barnhart offered insights on the legislation before the committee advanced the measure to the full Senate. Their appearance offered powerful testimonials for the legislature's work so far on the NIL issue. The House still has to weigh in on the issue.

College athletes in Kentucky have been able to make money off their name, image and likeness since last summer, when an executive order signed by Gov. Andy Beshear took effect. His widely praised action was seen as a short-term response until state or federal lawmakers took action.

Lawmakers in statehouses across the country are wrangling with the high-stakes issue, as millions of dollars pour into endorsements for college athletes.

Calipari on Wednesday praised the plan being crafted by Kentucky lawmakers, telling the committee: "I think it’s a model bill. I think other states are going to look at this bill and say, ‘Wow.’"

He said the bill would give university administrators like Barnhart "the room to look at this and say how we do this."

"Yet you protect these student-athletes. ... You’re giving them opportunities," he said.

Barnhart also praised the bill's flexibility, saying that "many aspects of this landscape continue to