Two Drinks with. . . the College Football Booster Who Paid the Players

Nevin Shapiro, a former University of Miami booster, was involved in significant NCAA rule violations nearly two decades before the NCAA policy changes allowing college athletes to receive compensation for endorsements. Shapiro, who amassed wealth through his grocery distribution business, provided Miami football players with financial incentives, extravagant parties, and additional perks such as yacht outings and club visits. His actions directly challenged the NCAA's regulations at the time, which prohibited college athletes from receiving payments, despite allowing coaches and administrators to earn substantial profits. Shapiro's activities went undetected for an extended period, highlighting the challenges in enforcing NCAA regulations during that era.