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    Brown told ESPN he wants athletes in Ohio to have opportunities similar to those of high school athletes elsewhere and to not have to leave the state to get them. The lawsuit states that Ohio is one of six states that doesn’t allow high school athletes to profit off their NIL.

    “It’s about creating fairness and giving us the chance to use our name, image and likeness in positive ways while staying focused on school,” Brown told ESPN. “If this helps make things a little easier for the next group coming up, then it’s worth it.”

    The complaint calls the OHSAA rules “outdated and unlawful,” noting that the state has enacted laws to allow college athletes to benefit from their NIL. The lawsuit says talented athletes in Ohio are incentivized to leave for neighboring states such as West Virginia, Kentucky and Pennsylvania.

    “I think Jamier’s family is similar to a lot of families that recognize that there are significant opportunities to elevate their name, image and likeness,” said Luke Fedlam, Brown’s attorney with Amundsen Davis in Columbus. “He’d be able to help his family while still focusing on school and competing and playing sports in high school at the highest level.”

    Brown said his pride in being from Ohio was part of his motivation for bringing the lawsuit.

    “Being able to compete where you’re from matters,” he said. “Ohio is home, and I take pride in that, so my focus is staying here and doing my part to help make things better.”