All articles tagged with #nil deal
UCLA secured Serbia’s Nikola Kusturica for the 2026-27 season with a multiyear NIL agreement, positioning him as a top prospect for the 2028 NBA Draft; the 4-star, 17-year-old wing starred for FC Barcelona and Serbia (notably 37 points in the FIBA U17 World Cup final) and was viewed as UCLA’s top target over Michigan before Dusty May’s Mavericks hire shifted the recruitment, joining a Bruins class that aims to return to title contention.
Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby left the program to enter a residential gambling rehab, with the move reportedly tied to an NCAA investigation into his online betting activity; the transfer from Cincinnati and a large NIL deal are part of the broader context as Tech relies on quarterback depth behind Behren Morton.
Braden Smith broke the NCAA all-time career assists record with his 1,077th dime (vs Queens) and then signed an NIL deal with State Farm as part of its 'With the Assist' campaign, expanding a growing NIL portfolio that includes Great Clips and NBA 2K sponsorships; his $1.1M On3 NIL Valuation ranks him among the top college basketball earners, as Purdue advances to face Miami after a 26-point, eight-assist Round of 64 win.
Oregon State athletic director Scott Barnes discusses the recent firing of head coach Trent Bray, the team's challenges, the Blueprint Sports NIL deal, and plans for improving fan experience and honoring the university's athletic heritage amid fan frustrations.
Tennessee defensive back Boo Carter's status is uncertain after missing team activities and being confronted by team leaders, with his future at the program unclear as coach Josh Heupel is expected to address the situation soon. Carter, a strong freshman contributor, had announced his return for 2025 despite transfer rumors and NIL deals. The situation unfolds amid Tennessee's adjustments following quarterback Nico Iamaleava's departure, emphasizing the importance of a 'next man up' mentality in college football.
Five-star offensive tackle Felix Ojo signed a historic $5.1 million, three-year NIL deal after committing to Texas Tech, setting a new benchmark in college football and highlighting the increasing financial opportunities for top recruits.
Ohio State's top defensive end target, Luke Wafle, committed to USC after the Trojans offered a lucrative NIL deal worth up to $2.6 million over two years, despite Ohio State's efforts to retain him with a higher NIL offer.
South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers was reportedly offered $8 million to transfer, highlighting the ongoing issue of financial inducements in college sports, but he has chosen to stay at USC despite the offers. Sellers, a top dual-threat QB and Heisman contender, values his education and playing career over money, with his NIL valuation at $3.7 million.
NiJaree Canady, a star pitcher for Texas Tech softball, has signed another seven-figure NIL contract, confirming her commitment to stay at Texas Tech and focus on their upcoming national championship game. Her decision to remain at Tech, after leading the team to the brink of a national title and making history, was influenced by the program's support and her desire to continue her successful career there.
BYU's first-year basketball coach Kevin Young discussed the signing of AJ Dybantsa, the top-rated high school basketball recruit in the country, marking a significant moment in BYU sports history. Young highlighted the extensive recruitment process and the role of BYU's NIL collective in securing Dybantsa, who chose BYU over North Carolina, Kansas, and Alabama. Young emphasized Dybantsa's maturity and potential, comparing his playing style to NBA stars and expressing confidence in his future NBA prospects.
Dave Portnoy celebrated Michigan's successful recruitment of top quarterback Bryce Underwood, who flipped his commitment from LSU after reportedly being offered a $10.5 million NIL deal. Portnoy hinted at his involvement in securing Underwood's commitment, which could significantly impact Michigan's future in college football. The Wolverines, currently experiencing a down season, are expected to return to national title contention with Underwood, a Michigan native, leading the team.
Florida coach Billy Napier expressed confidence in his actions and legal team regarding the lawsuit filed by Jaden Rashada, who accused Napier and others of fraud related to a failed $13.85 million NIL deal. Napier, who learned of the lawsuit through media reports, emphasized that he cannot comment due to ongoing litigation but is supported by the university. The lawsuit alleges fraudulent misrepresentation and inducement, among other claims, and involves top Gators booster Hugh Hathcock and former staffer Marcus Castro-Walker.
Jaden Rashada, who transferred to Arizona State after a failed NIL deal at Florida, has entered the transfer portal after just one year with the Sun Devils. The quarterback, who started two games as a true freshman before getting injured, is now seeking a new school for his college career. Georgia is reportedly interested in recruiting him, potentially leading to a return to the SEC East.
Fox Sports considered offering a NIL deal to Caitlin Clark to entice her to stay in college basketball for another year, as she has been a ratings sensation. However, Clark has declared for the 2024 WNBA Draft, likely to be the first overall pick. Her games have drawn massive audiences, and Fox had hoped for another season with her at Iowa. Despite the potential economic case for such a deal, it never materialized as Clark's decision to enter the WNBA Draft was already made.
Mercy Miller, son of Master P and a top high school basketball prospect, has signed a $1.4 million NIL deal with Sweetkiwi, a greek yogurt company, as their brand ambassador. The 4-star shooting guard from California's Notre Dame High School is making waves on the court and has committed to Houston. His partnership with Sweetkiwi aligns with his focus on health and flavor, and the company aims to promote healthy lifestyles among young athletes. With impressive performances and a famous father who also pursued basketball, Miller is poised to make a mark in the sport.