What NCAA basketball players make the most money from NIL endorsements?

In the first year of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) contracts, college athletes collectively earned a whopping estimated amount of $917 million. This new NCAA policy has allowed student-athletes to make money from endorsements, sponsorships, and other business deals that involve their NIL. With this policy in place, many student-athletes have seized the opportunity to earn some extra income while still pursuing their academic and athletic goals. In this regard, we are excited to share some insights on the top NIL earners among student basketball athletes, who have made the most of this new policy. You’ll notice the encouraging balance between the male and female top-earning athletes.

5. Jared McCain, Duke, $1 million

The Duke guard and former McDonald’s All-American has garnered substantial interest due to his popularity and charisma. According to recruiting and NIL database On3, McCain is tied for the third-highest NIL deal in men’s college basketball.

4. Flau’jae Johnson, LSU, $1.1 million

Flau’jae Johnson has greatly impacted LSU’s basketball team from her first season, increasing her popularity in 2023. Her contribution to the Tigers’ national championship success earlier this year has made her a noteworthy figure in women’s college basketball. Johnson has sponsorship deals with brands such as Amazon, Papa John’s, Tampax, JBL, LG, Powerade, and many others. Johnson has benefited from NIL in many ways, including being able to pursue her passion for rap music. Although Johnson aspires to play in the WNBA, she has also signed a contract with Roc Nation, which would not have been possible before the NCAA allowed NIL deals.

Reese, on the other hand, is pursuing a modeling career and has recently been featured in the 2023 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. She aims to carry her sponsorships with her to the WNBA, where rookie players receive no more than $75,000 in their first year of contracts.

3. Hansel Emmanuel, Austin Peay, $1.2 million

Hansel Enmanuel secured a major NIL deal in 2023 totaling $1.2 million. Despite being without a left arm, Enmanuel excels on the basketball court, representing Austin Peay State University and participating in 20 games this season.

2. Angel Reese, LSU, $1.7 million

Angel Reese, a former Maryland standout, has made quite a name for herself since she transferred to LSU. Her NIL valuation has soared to an impressive $1.7 million, and she was a key player in leading the LSU women’s basketball team to a national championship victory last season.

Reese has continued to dominate the court this season with her impressive stats. She currently averages 19.5 points per game and 12.6 rebounds per game, which translates to a double-double average. Her outstanding performance has helped the Tigers maintain a 21-4 record, and she is considered to be one of the team’s most valuable players.

Despite all this, Reese remains humble and focused on her team’s success. In a recent interview, she credited her teammates and coaches for their support and guidance throughout her basketball journey. Reese’s popularity has also continued to grow, with fans closely following her next move as she approaches the end of her college career.

1. Bronny James, USC, $5.9 million

Bronny’s NIL value dropped from $7.2 million to $5.9 million after his cardiac arrest. However, he gained a significant following on +11.9k just 48 hours after his USC debut, resulting in a five-figure increase in his value. His partnership with Nike, recent appearance in the Fast X commercial, and collaboration with Beats by Dre also contribute to his earnings. Bronny is a highly sought-after athlete represented by Klutch Sports and currently holds the top position on the NIL rank list.