Chattanooga Mocs Vice Chancellor for Athletics Mark Wharton released the following statement in regards to the House v. NCAA settlement:
The House v. NCAA case was settled in U.S. District Court on June 6, 2025. This charts a new course in collegiate athletics in the institution’s ability to directly compensate student-athletes for the use of their name, image and likeness (NIL). This marks a substantial shift from the NCAA's long-standing amateurism policy and permits all Division I colleges and universities that “opt in” to the settlement sharing revenue with student athletes.
This is a necessary first step in navigating this new era of collegiate athletics.
It sets a much-needed standard. Our department is opting into the settlement as we navigate into the future. There is still a lot to learn and develop as we enter this uncharted course, but there are a few things to emphasize.
Our commitment to the student-athlete experience is unwavering. The new roster limits greatly enhance the ability to enhance the quantity and quality of that experience.
Our focus is on providing the resources necessary to keep our competitive edge and continue the championship legacy built by our coaches and student-athletes.
How does that work?
One of the biggest revenue generators comes from ticket sales and gameday revenue (ex. concessions, parking, etc.). Purchasing season tickets and supporting our teams at Finley, McKenzie, Maclellan and Frost are vital elements moving forward.
Mocs Club donations from annual giving to major gifts and capital campaigns provide the foundation for our programs.
Sponsorships/advertising via Mocs Sports Properties is a major component as well. Add in media rights deals via TV/streaming (SoCon) and radio (Mocs Sports Properties).
Support also comes from merchandising and licensing. Buying officially licensed Chattanooga Mocs gear not only shows your support in our community, but it also adds to the enhancements needed as we continue ahead.
This new path starting July 1 can be Chattanooga's competitive edge as it pertains to recruiting and retaining top talent. We look forward to continuing to work with our coaching staffs and student-athletes in providing a comprehensive and excellent experience in competition, in the classroom and in our community.