LSU launches internal investigation to review possible NCAA violation by Fournette’s family
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USA Today reported Tuesday that sources indicate LSU has launched an investigation to determine if the family of Leonard Fournette has committed an NCAA violation by selling merchandise with his likeness and the catchphrase ‘BUGA Nation’.
NCAA rules do not allow players or family members to profit of the athlete’s likeness, name or image.
Bob Barton, an attorney representing LSU who specializes in matters involving NCAA rules, declined comment, but sources say he is leading the investigation.
According to a previous report from USA Today, a family manager type made payments of $10,000 to set up the site and buy the merchandise last year:
The website launched the week of LSU’s 2014 season opener, but the business went no further — sales of T-shirts and hats were stopped within 24 hours after the NCAA learned of its existence, according to Lory Fournette.
“There’s certain rules that just can’t be broken,” she told USA TODAY Sports.
NCAA rules prohibit athletes or their family members from profiting off the athlete’s name, image or likeness. The Fournettes insisted their son’s name or image not be used on the website, and indeed the apparel that appears on a development version of the website only includes the “BUGA Nation” logo and LSU colors.
USA Today uncovered the ‘BUGA Nation’ site last week.
