A new era of college athletics is beginning after a federal judge approved a $2.8 billion antitrust settlement last week that will drastically change the way college sports operate. The decision removes outdated amateurism rules from college sports and allows schools to begin paying their athletes directly.

Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork addressed the changes coming to college sports following the settlement of the House v NCAA case.

An appeal was filed Wednesday by a group of eight women athletes on the basis of Title IX, specifically regarding backpay for former athletes.

In their first extensive comments since Judge Claudia Wilken approved the House v. NCAA settlement last week, the commissioners of the five listed defendants -- the ACC, Big 12, Big Ten, Pac-12 and SEC -- expressed hope that the new revenue-sharing world it created will bring stability to what has been a tremendous period of upheaval within college athletics.

The Energy and Commerce, Judiciary and Education and Workforce committees plan to introduce a set of bills in pursuit of the NCAA's goals.

Chancellor Daniel Diermeier and Athletic Director Candice Story Lee believe the university is well-positioned for this new era of college sports.

THE OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER Now that was more like it from Oklahoma City's point of view. After blowing a double-digit fourth quarter lead in Game 1, the Thunder thumped the Pacers, 123-107, to even the NBA Finals.