Northwest Sports Update College athletes get paid, Kirby back to form, Seattle athlete burglar caught and more

A landmark ruling allows colleges to directly compensate Division I athletes, concluding three federal lawsuits against the NCAA. A judge approved a $2. 8 billion settlement requiring the NCAA to pay damages to athletes who participated since 2016, with schools permitted to pay up to $20 million annually starting July 1. This development marks a significant shift in college athletics and athlete rights. Meanwhile, 21-year-old Earl Riley faces charges for a series of burglaries targeting prominent Seattle athletes, including Mariners pitcher Luis Castillo and former Seahawk Richard Sherman.

Prosecutors allege Riley was the ringleader in thefts exceeding $200,000 in value. The burglaries reportedly began in February and included high-end items like Louis Vuitton bags and luxury watches. The increase in athlete compensation highlights the growing financial stakes in collegiate sports, while the burglaries expose vulnerabilities faced by athletes off the field. This evolving landscape raises questions about security and the implications of athlete visibility in the community.