Chicago State Twins File Federal Antitrust Lawsuit Against NCAA Over Suspension for Receiving NIL Compensation

Matthew and Ryan Bewley allege NCAA's decision to deem them ineligible conflicts with prior rulings, violating the Illinois Student-Athlete Endorsement Rights Act and the association's interim NIL policy; brothers seek damages and injunction to play for Chicago State Cougars.

• Chicago State University basketball commits, Matthew and Ryan Bewley, have filed a federal antitrust lawsuit against the NCAA, alleging that the association rendered them ineligible due to compensation they received for the use of their name, image, and likeness (NIL) during their time at Overtime Elite Academy.
• The twins claim that the NCAA's decision contravenes their interim Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policy as well as the Illinois Student-Athlete Endorsement Rights Act.
• The Bewley brothers seek damages and an injunction that would permit them to participate in the Cougars' games, the first of which is scheduled against Bowling Green on Monday.
• The lawsuit is a challenge to the NCAA's traditional amateurism model. It disputes that the NCAA imposes artificial wage caps and applies 'selective enforcement'—citing instances where other former Overtime athletes were deemed eligible despite receiving similar compensation.
• Overtime Elite Academy initially offered professional opportunities and paid competitive salaries. Following its inaugural 2021 season, Overtime adopted a scholarship approach, stating it would maintain college eligibility for its players.

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