This Week on ICYMI NIL
The Players NIL
Online and in-person coaching that helps student-athletes navigate NIL opportunities and prepare for life after sports.
Welcome to ICYMI NIL - our weekly curated newsletter that provides our take on interesting stories in the world of NIL.
Let's jump into it!
Friday Focus: Athletic Departments Share Their Vision for Success in the Revenue-Sharing Era
On the latest episode of Just Thinking, TPNIL founder Mark Koesterer shares his thoughts on the letter addressed to the University of Wyoming Athletics community by Athletic Director Tom Burman .
In the letter, AD Burman discusses how the university and its athletic department are positioned to continue attracting students in this new era of revenue-sharing with athletes.
"Our success in this next chapter is up to all of us."
Athletic departments like the University of Wyoming are embracing this reality head-on, but it's not just about adjusting budgets or implementing new policies. It’s about rallying the entire ecosystem—alumni, boosters, fans, and local businesses—toward a shared vision of success.
Happy Friday, everyone!
Athletes as Influencers: A Look at the Numbers
In the new era of sports, athletes have never been more celebrated—or more empowered.
The Paris 2024 Olympics is a prime example, shattering records for streaming and social media engagement, making it the most digitally engaged Games in history.
According to a recent article, NBC’s streaming numbers surpassed Tokyo and Beijing combined, with billions of minutes watched and explosive growth across platforms like TikTok.
The hashtag hashtag #Olympics skyrocketed, drawing millions of posts and interactions and highlighting a cultural shift: sports are no longer confined to primetime TV—they’re part of a 24/7 global digital experience.
This new dynamic is especially relevant in the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) era.
For athletes, this represents an unprecedented opportunity to leverage their influence, build their brands, and connect directly with fans like never before. As we’ve seen with the Paris Games, social media isn’t just amplifying the event—it’s amplifying the athletes, turning moments into movements and creating viral sensations overnight.
At The Players NIL, we believe that this is only the beginning.
Athletes now have a unique chance to own their narratives, partner with brands authentically, and unlock revenue streams that were previously unimaginable. Our mission is to help these athletes harness the power of digital media and turn their passion into a lasting impact.
The rise of social media and streaming has fundamentally changed how we consume sports, making events like the Olympics a global digital spectacle. Athletes today have an unparalleled opportunity to capitalize on this shift, especially in the context of NIL, where their influence can directly translate to partnerships and earnings.
By embracing these new tools, athletes can go beyond the field and build brands that last, creating new opportunities for themselves and their communities. The sports world is evolving quickly, and the athletes who adapt and embrace this digital transformation will be the ones who thrive.
It’s an exciting time to be a part of this movement!
Early Opportunities with NIL: Empowering Young Athletes
Adidas signed 16-year-old high school basketball phenom Kaleena Smith, marking the first time the brand has partnered with a female high school basketball player.
While most high school student-athletes won’t secure deals with major brands like Adidas, it’s crucial to understand the rapidly evolving NIL landscape.
With opportunities now emerging before college, parents should take an active role in evaluating offers, ensuring eligibility compliance, and, most importantly, helping their child balance academics, athletics, and the demands of these new responsibilities.
It's also important to note that this deal reflects a strategic effort to empower young athletes, particularly young women.
Congrats to Candace Parker and Kaleena!
The Playbook Series Podcast
On this episode of Just Thinking, TPNIL founder Mark Koesterer chatted with Grant Breneman , the co-founder and CEO of Arvelo Media , a trailblazer in sports media production.
With a deep passion for athletics, Grant's journey from being a standout quarterback at Colgate University to a visionary entrepreneur showcases the powerful role sports can play in shaping your life.
Grant’s experience as a college athlete taught him invaluable lessons about leadership, resilience, and the importance of a strong mindset—lessons he has carried into his career and his company.
At Arvelo Media, Grant and his brother are dedicated to elevating athletic brands, transforming them into recognized powerhouses by leveraging impactful, organic social media strategies.
We Want to Hear From You!
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Have a great weekend!