Gen Z trusts athletes over celebrities. College athletes deliver 6x higher engagement than influencers. Cultural relevance isn't bought—it's built through authentic partnerships. Smart brands invest in relationships, not one-off transactions.
Read MoreMost brands chase NIL deals without real strategy. The smart winners ask: What business problem does this solve? NIL requires sports marketing expertise, not FOMO. Name your metric or stop.
Read MoreOver 85% of NIL deals involve social media. NIL is influencer marketing. Smart brands don't pick athletes first—they define goals, then find partners who authentically connect with their audience.
Read MoreSocial media is the foundation for NIL success. Student-athletes don't need to go viral or have massive followings. They need to tell their story consistently and show up authentically.
Read MoreStarting August 2025, NCAA DI coaches must complete annual NIL education. This isn't just compliance—it's an opportunity to help student-athletes build brands, avoid red flags, and develop career skills.
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