Daily Digest: UConn and USC Score With Deals

Today's digest spotlights UConn's creative NIL merch and USC's rising star Zachariah Branch's lucrative deals, while discussing the wider impact of NIL on college football and the call for uniform NIL regulation.

Author

Jack M
November 19, 2023

UConn Huskies' Slam Dunk in NIL Merchandise

  • UConn's top-10 ranked men's and women's basketball teams unveil a new NIL clothing line and posters, featuring creative caricatures from Campus Ink's NIL Store, to mark the new season.

  • The men's "Everything" collection celebrates their defending champions' stature, with women's "Shut Up and Win Games Tour" apparel inspired by coach Geno Auriemma's memorable words.

  • UConn athletes benefit directly from merchandise sales, with Campus Ink providing significant NIL compensation, and fans can snag this exclusive gear in time for the holidays.

Watch: NCAA President talks NIL Regulation

Meet The Press

  • Current NCAA President Charlie Baker discusses why he wants Congress to step in due to over 30 different state rules at the moment

  • Baker wants to see a uniform standard contract and regulations around the representation for student athletes

  • The NCAA has provided guidance for athletes but Baker wants consumer protection rules in place for student athletes across all institutions

USC's Zachariah Branch Scores Big with NIL Deals

  • USC's freshman sensation Zachariah Branch showcases his on-field talent, matching a Pac-12 record and drawing comparisons to Reggie Bush, sparking NIL deal interest.

  • Branch, managed by Excel Sports Management, bags two new NIL partnerships with Perfect Hydration and Honey Stinger, showing a promising future as a top NIL earner.

  • Despite USC's media restrictions for freshmen, Branch's brand grows with notable endorsements, hinting at his rising influence and potential off the field.

Fleck Flags the Game-Changing Role of NIL in College Football

  • Minnesota Coach P.J. Fleck likens NIL to the "NFL free agency" for its pivotal role in retaining and acquiring college football talent, highlighting its limitless nature.

  • Fleck underlines the support from donors and the importance of leading in NIL funding to keep and build the Golden Gophers' roster as key factors in the sport's evolving landscape.

  • With the offseason approaching, Minnesota's ability to offer competitive NIL deals could be a decisive factor in navigating the bustling transfer portal and finishing their season strong.

Darren Heitner highlights concerns with NIL Collectives

  • Many college athletes enter exclusive NIL deals with collectives, granting away commercial rights and splitting income as much as 50/50 after recouping advances.

  • Heitner spotlights potentially predatory NIL practices and encourages fairer negotiations for the benefit of college athletes' futures.