If you’ve ever wondered why sports isn’t a college major, you’re not alone. For years, some educators have argued that athletics deserve the same academic recognition as art, music, or drama—and now, they’re getting a major boost from Nike.

Here’s the deal: With college athletes now able to earn money from their name, image, and likeness (NIL), the idea of offering a degree in sports is gaining serious traction. Supporters say it’s about time. After all, if students can major in dance or theater, why not basketball or football?

One of the biggest voices in this movement is David Hollander, a professor at NYU. He’s been a longtime advocate for the intellectual value of sports. Hollander believes that things like teamwork, strategy, and even fast breaks can teach valuable life skills. “Athletics is an ancient cultural form,” he says. “It’s just as academically worthy as art or music.”

Now, Nike’s jumping on board. The sportswear giant, which pours millions into college sports through sponsorships, is backing the push for a sports major. While it’s still early days, the idea is gaining momentum, and Hollander is already planning a course that gives athletes academic credit for their on-field experiences.

So, could “sports” soon be a valid answer to the question, “What’s your major?” With big players like Nike and academics like Hollander pushing for it, it might not be long before we find out.