Rich Paul is finally addressing the NCAA's new agent criteria that's been dubbed the "Rich Paul Rule" ... saying the new requirements have NO impact on his business ... but could prevent people from following in his footsteps.
The NBA super agent published an op-ed in The Athletic on Monday ... breaking down the new policy (which requires a bachelor's degree to rep players testing their NBA waters without losing eligibility) and explaining how it hurts anyone trying to be the next Rich Paul.
"NCAA executives are once again preventing young people from less prestigious backgrounds, and often people of color, from working in the system they continue to control."
"In this case, the people being locked out are kids who aspire to be an agent and work in the NBA and do not have the resources, opportunity, or desire to get a four-year degree."
Paul DOES agree with 2 of the 3 requirements ... saying he supports requiring 3 years of experience and a written test in order to represent players testing the market.
"However, requiring a four-year degree accomplishes only one thing — systematically excluding those who come from a world where college is unrealistic."
Paul suggests the NCAA work with aspiring agents with a one-year program or mentorship, instead of rejecting them completely.
"The barriers to entry for the next Rich Paul are already high enough."
Paul ends the piece by encouraging the youth to continue to "strive for greatness" ... no matter what the NCAA does.