Report: LSU RB Leonard Fournette’s family may have violated NCAA rules
The family of LSU running back Leonard Fournette may have violated NCAA regulations that prohibit a college athlete from profiting from his or her name or likeness, reportsUSA Today.
The claim stems from Fournette’s time in high school, when the phrase “BUGA Nation” — which stands for “Being United Generates Attitude” — became associated with him.
The report says a man named Paul Price paid $10,000 to create a BUGA Nation website, which was launched in 2014 and later taken down. Three business owners also admitted to offering Fournette’s family a $20,000 discount to further the initiative, which has reportedly not yet been paid back.
The website featured merchandise for sale emblazoned with the star running back’s catchphrase. Fournette’s family reportedly requested his image and name not appear on the site, but LSU colors were reportedly used.
The university toldUSA Today on Thursday that it has no evidence of written communication between the NCAA and Fournette over the matter.
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