[Squid]

That's simply not true. Sadly, Mr. Fuller claims he was "paid" for his play. So, that assertion isn't altogether false at all.

I can understand how someone equates having their tuition paid with being paid (in cash) to play ball, but to me, there is a difference.

All private schools (that I know of) have funds that are used to help cover the cost of tuition for students. That is pretty normal. It is one thing to help a kid with his tuition (assuming that it isn't based solely on his/her athletic contributions) - it would be quite another to hand a kid $100 in cash every time he steps on the court (or field).