NIL to Net Worth: How Athletes Can Build Wealth Beyond the Game

Intro: You’re Getting Paid Now — But Are You Building Wealth?

Let’s have a real conversation.

For a long time, athletes weren’t allowed to make money until they hit the league. But now? NIL changed everything. You might be in high school or college and already getting paid off your name, image, and likeness. And if you’re not there yet, it’s coming.

But here’s what you need to understand — just getting paid isn’t enough.
The goal isn’t to flex. The goal is to build.
Wealth is the real flex.

A lot of players are signing brand deals, cashing checks, and doing partnerships — but nobody ever taught them what to do with that money. This article is about flipping the game. About making sure you don’t just touch the bag — but you learn how to hold it, grow it, and pass it on.

Let’s talk financial literacy for athletes — no fluff, no shame, just facts and guidance from someone who wants to see you win long-term.

1. What Is Financial Literacy, and Why Should You Care?

Financial literacy is just a fancy term for understanding how money works.

It’s knowing:

• How to earn money
• How to manage money
• How to protect money
• And how to grow money

Most of us — especially in underserved communities — were never taught this. Not in school. Not by coaches. Not even by parents sometimes, because they never learned either.

So you grow up thinking as long as you have money in your account, you’re good.

But that mindset? That’s how money slips away. That’s how pro athletes go broke after 3 years. That’s how NIL deals become wasted opportunity.

Financial literacy gives you control. It gives you power.

2. First Things First: Know What You’re Really Making

Let’s start basic. You got a deal. Somebody cut you a check. You see $5,000 come in.

You didn’t make $5,000.

Why?

Because taxes.

Let’s say you’re in college and you make $20K in NIL deals this year. Depending on where you live and your tax status, you might owe 25%–35% of that to taxes.

That’s $5,000–$7,000 gone if you’re not prepared.

If you spend the full 20K like it’s all yours, guess what? You’re going to be in debt fast.

Solution:

• Every time money hits your account, put 30% aside for taxes in a separate savings account.
• That way, when it’s time to file, you’re not panicking.
• Apps like QuickBooks Self-Employed or Keeper can help you track your earnings and write-offs.

3. Track Everything — Like You Track Stats

You wouldn’t walk into a game and not check your points, assists, or speed, right?

Same energy with money.

You can’t grow what you don’t track.

Start tracking:

• What you earn
• What you spend
• What you save
• What you invest

You can use an app like YNAB, Mint, or even a Google Sheet. It doesn’t have to be complicated — it just has to be consistent.

This habit alone will change your life.

4. Build a Budget That Works for You

A budget is just a plan for your money — not a punishment.

It’s the difference between being broke by the 12th and having freedom all month.

Here’s a simple starter formula:

• 50% → Needs (food, gas, rent, bills)
• 30% → Wants (shoes, trips, going out)
• 20% → Savings & investments

If you’re not paying rent yet, good. That just means you have more room to stack.

Whatever your income, pay yourself first. Even if it's $50 a month — build the habit.

5. Separate Personal and Business Accounts

If you’re getting NIL money, you’re technically a business now.

That means:

• You need to open a separate bank account for all your athlete/influencer income
• Use that account for business expenses: travel, gear, editing, media production
• Keep your personal spending separate

Why?

Because it helps you stay organized AND makes it easier to write off legit expenses on your taxes.

Later on, you might even start an LLC or S-Corp. But for now, just create separation. It'll save you stress and money.

6. Avoid the Flash Trap

Let’s talk about something real. The pressure to show off when you start making money.

New kicks. New drip. Designer fits. Expensive trips. Bottle service. Chains. We’ve all seen it.

But here’s the truth:
Nobody remembers your flexes 2 years from now — but they will remember if you’re broke later.

Ask yourself:

• Do I really need this right now?
• Am I trying to prove something to people who don’t pay my bills?
• Will this still matter when the checks stop?

Delayed gratification builds wealth. Flex with your discipline. Not your debit card.

7. Start Investing Early — Even $10 Counts

You don’t need to be rich to invest. You need to be consistent.

Start learning how compound interest works. That’s when your money makes money while you sleep.

You can open a Roth IRA or use apps like:

• Acorns
• Fidelity
• Robinhood
• Stash

If you put $100/month into investments starting at 18, you could have over six figures by your 30s — without even trying hard.

Start small. Grow as you go. You’ll thank yourself later.

8. Learn the Difference Between Assets and Liabilities

This is a game-changer.

An asset puts money in your pocket.
A liability takes money out.

So a car that loses value? Liability.
A YouTube channel making ad money? Asset.
A luxury jacket that looks cool but doesn’t earn anything? Liability.
A laptop that helps you edit and post content? Asset.

Shift your mindset from “How can I spend?” to “How can I build assets?”

Because assets are what create freedom.

9. Build Your Team Like You Build Your Game

You don’t need to do it alone.

Eventually, you’re going to need a:

• CPA or tax professional
• Financial advisor
• Creative/media team
• Legal rep for contracts
• Mentor who’s been there

Start asking questions now. Be the athlete who learns the game, not just plays it.

A strong team will save you money, time, and heartache.

10. Have a Long-Term Money Vision

You might be 19 with $10K right now. That’s good.

But think bigger.

Where do you want to be at 30?
Do you want to still be chasing the next gig, or do you want to own property, invest, and move on your own time?

Wealth isn’t about being flashy. It’s about freedom. Options. Legacy.

Make decisions now that reflect the future version of yourself.

Quick NIL Money Checklist (Save This)

• Track all income
• Set aside 30% for taxes
• Use a separate bank account
• Write down every expense
• Don’t spend more than you earn
• Budget monthly
• Save before you splurge
• Start investing — even $20/month
• Ask for help — find a mentor
• Keep learning. Every month.

Closing: It’s Bigger Than the Bag

Money is power — but only when you understand how to use it.

The truth is, a lot of athletes make money. But very few build wealth that lasts.

What you’re doing today — budgeting, saving, investing, learning — that’s how you go from NIL to Net Worth.

This isn’t just about how much you make.
It’s about how long you can keep it.
How well you can grow it.
And how wisely you can use it to elevate your life and others around you.

You’re already ahead of the game just by reading this. Now take the next step. Start small, stay consistent, and think long.

Written by Artizsoul Newsroom
For the athletes ready to build wealth, not just buzz

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