Reggie Bush Faces Legal Challenges in Lawsuit Against NCAA and USC

Los Angeles – Former USC Trojans running back Reggie Bush is currently facing a tough legal battle involving the NCAA, Pac-12, and the University of Southern California. This comes as a setback for Bush, who was hoping to win his lawsuit related to his name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights.

Recently, an Ohio federal district court dismissed a similar lawsuit filed by former Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor. The court ruled against Pryor on some claims due to them being past the statute of limitations as he played from 2008 to 2010. Bush’s case may face a similar hurdle since he played for USC earlier, from 2003 to 2005. LA Times reported that this timing may significantly impact the outcome of his lawsuit.

In 2010, Bush was stripped of his Heisman Trophy after allegations surfaced that he received improper benefits during his college career. In April 2024, amid changes to the NIL landscape, the Heisman Trust returned his trophy to him, which has reignited the focus on his past dealings with the NCAA and the larger college sports framework.

Bush’s legal team argues that the organizations he is suing benefited from his fame as one of the biggest stars in college football. They claim these organizations profited directly from **TV contracts and media rights** that showcased his talents and image during his university years.

In a statement regarding the lawsuit, USC expressed their unwavering respect for Bush: “Reggie will always be a revered member of the Trojan Family, and we were very pleased to support his successful efforts to recover his Heisman Trophy. We have not received a copy of the lawsuit so we are unable to address its allegations,” said the university.

Despite the ongoing legal issues, Bush maintains a positive outlook toward the USC program and its current head coach Lincoln Riley. “I think the world of Lincoln Riley, I think he’s a great coach. I’m excited to see what he does next year… But I also would love a bite at the apple as well, to be able to come back and coach my alma mater. Words can’t even explain what that would mean to me,” Bush stated.

As Bush navigates this complex legal landscape, the dismissal of Pryor’s case could set a precedent that might influence the outcome of his lawsuit. The college sports community will be watching closely as events develop.