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Crypto on the Field

The world of sports sponsorship has always been about visibility and brand recognition. For decades, we’ve seen everything from soft drink companies to car manufacturers plaster their logos across jerseys, stadiums, and broadcast graphics. But something different has been happening lately. Digital currency companies have entered the game in a big way, and they’re changing […]

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Crypto on the Field

The world of sports sponsorship has always been about visibility and brand recognition. For decades, we’ve seen everything from soft drink companies to car manufacturers plaster their logos across jerseys, stadiums, and broadcast graphics. But something different has been happening lately. Digital currency companies have entered the game in a big way, and they’re changing how sponsorship deals work.

This shift isn’t just about new logos replacing old ones. The relationship between crypto companies and sports organizations represents a fundamental change in how sponsorship value gets created and delivered.

Why Crypto Companies Want Sports

Digital currency companies face a unique challenge that traditional businesses don’t have to worry about. They’re selling something that many people still don’t fully understand or trust, whether it’s basic concepts like USD to XRP conversions or more complex blockchain technologies. Sports offer them something incredibly valuable: legitimacy and mass appeal.

When a crypto company sponsors a major sports team or event, they’re not just buying advertising space. They’re buying credibility. Sports have this amazing ability to make things feel mainstream and trustworthy. If your favorite team trusts a company enough to put its logo on the field, many fans figure that the company must be legitimate.

Sports also provide access to demographics that crypto companies really want to reach. The typical sports fan often overlaps with the target audience for digital currency adoption. These are people who are comfortable with technology, willing to try new things, and have disposable income to invest.

The exposure factor is massive, too. A single game can reach millions of viewers, and unlike traditional advertising, sponsorship integration feels more natural and less intrusive. Fans expect to see sponsor logos during games, so the message doesn’t feel forced.

What Sports Organizations Get in Return

For sports teams and leagues, crypto sponsorships often come with benefits that go beyond the typical cash payment. Many of these deals include opportunities for innovation and fan engagement that weren’t possible with traditional sponsors.

Some organizations receive their sponsorship payments partially in digital currency, which can be an interesting investment opportunity if the value increases over time. Others get access to blockchain technology that can improve how they handle ticketing, merchandise authentication, or fan loyalty programs.

The partnership often extends into creating new revenue streams. Teams might launch their own fan tokens or digital collectibles, giving supporters new ways to engage with the organization while generating additional income.

These sponsorships also help sports organizations appear forward-thinking and tech-savvy. In an industry where staying relevant to younger audiences is crucial, having crypto partnerships can signal that a team or league is embracing the future rather than clinging to the past.

The Fan Experience Changes

For fans, crypto sponsorships have introduced some interesting new experiences. Rather than just seeing a logo and moving on, supporters now have opportunities to interact with sponsors in ways that weren’t possible before.

Some teams offer exclusive digital content or experiences that can only be accessed through crypto-related platforms. Others have created loyalty programs where fans can earn digital tokens for attending games or purchasing merchandise and then use those tokens for special perks.

The educational aspect has been significant, too. Many fans have gotten their first exposure to digital currency concepts through their favorite teams. When a trusted sports organization explains blockchain technology or digital assets, it often carries more weight than hearing about it from financial news sources.

However, this hasn’t been universally welcomed. Some longtime supporters feel uncomfortable with their teams promoting something they view as speculative or risky. The challenge for sports organizations has been balancing innovation with maintaining their traditional fan base.

Challenges and Growing Pains

This new sponsorship landscape hasn’t been without problems. The volatility of digital currency markets means that deals can become much more or less valuable than originally anticipated. A sponsorship agreement signed when crypto prices are high might look very different a few months later.

Regulatory uncertainty has created complications, too. Sports organizations have had to navigate changing rules about digital currency advertising and promotion, sometimes having to modify or end partnerships unexpectedly.

There’s also been a learning curve for both sides. Traditional sports marketing teams have had to understand entirely new technologies and business models. Meanwhile, crypto companies have had to adapt their typically tech-focused messaging for mainstream sports audiences.

Some partnerships have faced criticism for promoting products that critics argue are too complex or risky for average consumers. Sports organizations have had to balance their desire for innovative partnerships with their responsibility to their fan communities.

Looking Ahead

The relationship between crypto and sports sponsorship will likely continue evolving as both industries mature. As digital currency becomes more mainstream and regulated, we’ll probably see these partnerships become more sophisticated and stable.

The technology behind crypto offers genuine opportunities to improve fan experiences, from more secure ticketing systems to new forms of digital merchandise. As sports organizations become more comfortable with these technologies, we’ll likely see more creative applications.

The key will be finding the right balance between innovation and accessibility, ensuring that new technologies enhance rather than complicate the fan experience.

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Former UNCW assistant volleyball coach charged in deadly hit-and-run

Jeffrey Yasalonis (Photo: NHSO) WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A Wilmington man is facing a felony charge after allegedly leaving the scene of a deadly crash on Market Street early Friday morning. According to the arrest warrant, Jeffrey Yasalonis is charged in the death of Melanie Lynn Degrazio. The crash happened shortly before 12:30 a.m. on July […]

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Jeffrey Yasalonis (Photo: NHSO)

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A Wilmington man is facing a felony charge after allegedly leaving the scene of a deadly crash on Market Street early Friday morning.

According to the arrest warrant, Jeffrey Yasalonis is charged in the death of Melanie Lynn Degrazio.

The crash happened shortly before 12:30 a.m. on July 4th in the 4100 block of Market Street. When Wilmington Police officers arrived, they found Degrazio, 43, dead at the scene.

At the time of the initial news release on Friday, police said the driver involved was identified and they were still investigating.

An article on the UNCW Athletics website said Yasalonis was hired in 2023 as assistant coach for the UNCW women’s volleyball team. He also served as interim head coach in the fall of 2024, but he is no longer listed as a current member of the coaching staff.

According to online records, Yasalonis was arrested Sunday afternoon at 679 Wagoner Drive, which is the address for Trask Coliseum. He is out of jail on a $35,000 bond.  He is scheduled for his first court appearance on Monday afternoon.

In a statement, UNCW said Yasalonis was not an employee at the time of the incident.

“His employment with the university concluded on 12/17/2024.  As this is an active legal matter, we will not comment further in accordance with our policies and respect for the privacy of those involved,” the statement continued.





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Burnsville High School boys volleyball coach charged with criminal sexual conduct

A Twin Cities high school boys volleyball coach faces criminal sexual conduct charges. Prosecutors allege Brooke Reinhardt, 24, sexually assaulted a 17-year-old player. Her alleged conduct was discovered after the victim’s wallet was found at the home of a friend for whom Reinhardt was housesitting, a criminal complaint states. The friend said the victim “had […]

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A Twin Cities high school boys volleyball coach faces criminal sexual conduct charges.

Prosecutors allege Brooke Reinhardt, 24, sexually assaulted a 17-year-old player.

Her alleged conduct was discovered after the victim’s wallet was found at the home of a friend for whom Reinhardt was housesitting, a criminal complaint states. The friend said the victim “had never been in [his] residence and had no reason to be.”

When police interviewed the victim, he initially said he “had not spent any time with just [Reinhardt] aside from their sport.” After police found texts on his phone from Reinhardt saying “he had a lot of things to delete,” as well as “texts about condoms,” he admitted to the criminal sexual conduct, the complaint states.

Reinhardt also denied the conduct initially, but later admitted it, according to the complaint. She faces three felony counts of criminal sexual conduct.

Reinhardt was hired by the district in September 2023 and was listed on the Burnsville High School boys’ volleyball page as the sole coach.

In a letter to families, the district wrote in part, “The District is limited by state law on the information we can release regarding personnel, but please know that we have and will continue to fully cooperate with law enforcement regarding this matter, and will take appropriate actions as dictated by district policies and state law. Following these upsetting allegations, the school and district’s immediate and primary concern is for the well-being of our students.”

In regard to Reinhardt’s status with the school, the district said she “is a coach only and doesn’t hold any other position.”

The school district encouraged family members or students who have concerns, questions or information to contact the school directly or Assistant Superintendent Dr. Chris Bellmont at cbellmont@isd191.org.


Sexual Assault Resources

General Sites for information related to sexual assault and resources throughout Minnesota:

General Sexual Assault Websites:

If you know of a child who may have been a victim of exploitation, call the National Center for Missing or Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678 or visit the website.



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U-18 Volleyball Team Set For NORCECA Qualifier

Bermuda’s U18 women’s beach volleyball team, featuring Olivia Gazzard and Sophie Weikl, will compete in the NORCECA World Championship Qualifier in the Dominican Republic from July 7–9. A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Volleyball Association [BVA] is thrilled to announce its participation in the NORCECA U18 World Championship Qualification Tournament, scheduled from July 7-9, 2025, in […]

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Bermuda’s U18 women’s beach volleyball team, featuring Olivia Gazzard and Sophie Weikl, will compete in the NORCECA World Championship Qualifier in the Dominican Republic from July 7–9.

A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Volleyball Association [BVA] is thrilled to announce its participation in the NORCECA U18 World Championship Qualification Tournament, scheduled from July 7-9, 2025, in Juan Dolio, Dominican Republic. The BVA received a last-minute invitation to fill a vacancy in the Women’s event, and our U18 Women’s Beach Volleyball team will be competing.

“Our team features the promising duo of Olivia Gazzard [15] and Sophie Weikl [15]. They will face teams from Bermuda, USA, Canada, Anguilla, Antigua, Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, US Virgin Islands, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Trinidad & Tobago, and Nicaragua.

“Bermuda has been drawn into Pool D, where they will compete against the USA, Mexico, and Anguilla. Bermuda’s competition kicks off on July 7th against Mexico at 12 PM Bermuda time, followed by a match against Anguilla at 3:20 PM. On day two, Bermuda will challenge the USA.

“This event is a pivotal opportunity for our team to participate on the international beach stage. The top four teams will qualify directly for the Main Draw at the 2025 FIVB U18 Beach Volleyball World Championships, taking place from October 7-11 in Doha, Qatar.”

Head Coach Sean Tucker will accompany the team. He stated, “The U18 Bermuda team has been training with the NextGen Beach Volleyball program for a few months, under the guidance of FIVB coach Rick Beavis. They have worked hard and shown dedication throughout the beach season. They are excited to represent Bermuda outside of the Caribbean, especially at a world championship qualifier. They are eager to demonstrate their skills against the top competitors in NORCECA.”

The BVA has proactively prepared a U18 team for this qualification event, underscoring our commitment to developing young talent and providing pathways for international competition. BVA Co-President Brandon Sousa remarked, “This qualifier is a fantastic opportunity for Olivia and Sophie to accelerate their development against top-tier international competition. The BVA is dedicated to nurturing our young Bermuda talent, and this tournament offers an invaluable platform for them to gain experience, learn, and grow as athletes. Their participation highlights the BVA’s commitment to building a strong foundation for the future of beach volleyball in Bermuda.”

The spokesperson said, “We encourage the community to follow the team’s progress during the tournament. Updates will be provided on the Bermuda Volleyball Association’s social media channels. For more information and results, please visit the links below:

U18 Women’s Beach Volleyball NORCECA World Championship Qualifier Bermuda July 2025 (4)

U18 Women’s Beach Volleyball NORCECA World Championship Qualifier Bermuda July 2025 (1)

U18 Women’s Beach Volleyball NORCECA World Championship Qualifier Bermuda July 2025 (2)

U18 Women’s Beach Volleyball NORCECA World Championship Qualifier Bermuda July 2025 (3)

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Energy Drinks Market Size, Regional Growth, Growth Projections And Insights 2025-2035

Market Overview The global Energy Drinks Market is valued at USD 79.59 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach a value of USD 139.6 billion by 2035 at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 5.25% between 2025 and 2035. The Global Energy Drinks Market has positioned itself as one of the most rapidly expanding segments within the beverage industry. Characterized by […]

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Market Overview

The global Energy Drinks Market is valued at USD 79.59 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach a value of USD 139.6 billion by 2035 at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 5.25% between 2025 and 2035.

The Global Energy Drinks Market has positioned itself as one of the most rapidly expanding segments within the beverage industry. Characterized by its appeal to millennials, Gen Z, and athletes, energy drinks are consumed for their stimulating effects, including improved alertness, endurance, and physical performance. Combining ingredients like caffeine, taurine, B vitamins, herbal extracts, and sugar or sugar alternatives, these beverages have captured a wide consumer base over the past decade. The market’s growth has primarily been driven by the increasing demand for functional drinks, changing consumer lifestyles, and the rising popularity of health-conscious yet energy-boosting products. Furthermore, aggressive marketing strategies by leading brands and an escalating trend among youth to adopt energy beverages as lifestyle drinks are fueling growth. The sector shows no sign of slowing down, with technological advancements and product innovations offering fresh perspectives to both consumers and stakeholders.

Our comprehensive Global Energy Drinks Market report is ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Sample Report PDF.

Market Segmentation & Key Companies

Segment Covered

By Product

By Type

By Packaging

By Distribution Channel

By Region

  • North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico)
  • Europe (Germany, France, U.K., Italy, Spain, Nordic Countries, Benelux Union, Rest of Europe)
  • Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Rest of Asia Pacific)
  • Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Rest of Latin America)
  • Middle East & Africa

Companies Covered  

  • The Coca-Cola Company.
  • Living Essentials
  • Red Bull
  • Monster Beverage Corporation
  • Arizona Beverage Company
  • PepsiCo
  • Rockstar Inc
  • Keurig Dr Pepper Inc.
  • SUNTORY HOLDINGS LIMITED
  • National Beverage Corp

Market Dynamics

The energy drinks market is influenced by a broad spectrum of dynamic forces that collectively shape its trajectory. On the demand side, the rise in urbanization, coupled with busier lifestyles, has triggered a significant shift toward convenient, on-the-go energizing solutions. As individuals balance work, social activities, and personal pursuits, the need for sustained energy has surged, making energy drinks a go-to product. Consumer behavior is also changing; there’s a growing inclination toward non-traditional soft drinks that offer additional functionality. Alongside this consumer shift, the marketing efforts from leading brands, especially targeting tech-savvy and trend-sensitive younger users through digital platforms, play a pivotal role in brand penetration and loyalty.

On the supply side, product innovation remains a key force. Manufacturers are focusing on organic ingredients, low-sugar or sugar-free options, and eco-friendly packaging materials to align with consumer health and sustainability goals.

Additionally, partnerships and sponsorships with sports teams, influencers, and music festivals continue to generate substantial brand visibility and market traction. However, regulatory changes concerning caffeine content and the inclusion of certain ingredients may impact the market landscape. Overall, the energy drinks market is being molded by a combination of consumer preferences, technological innovation, and policy considerations, creating a multi-dimensional dynamic that stakeholders must navigate with agility.

Top Trends in the Market

The energy drinks industry is witnessing a remarkable transformation primarily driven by consumer-centric trends. One of the most significant trends is the massive shift toward clean label and natural ingredients. Today’s consumers are demanding transparency about what goes into their beverages. As a result, many brands are introducing energy drinks crafted with organic herbs, vegan-friendly ingredients, and naturally sourced caffeine, such as green tea or yerba mate.

Another prominent trend is the emergence of CBD-infused and nootropic energy drinks. These products claim to enhance cognitive function, reduce stress, and provide an energy boost without the traditional crash associated with high-sugar, high-caffeine beverages. Alongside this, zero-sugar and low-calorie alternatives are gaining serious momentum as consumers become more health-conscious, especially post-pandemic.

The market is also experiencing a functional crossover with health and wellness, where energy drinks are not only providing instant energy but also additional health benefits such as mental focus, muscle recovery, and immune support. Furthermore, eco-conscious packaging and sustainable practices are driving buying decisions, forcing brands to rethink their environmental footprint. Finally, personalization and AI-driven product customization such as drinks tailored to an individual’s DNA or activity levels are slowly revolutionizing consumer engagement and product relevance in this fast-paced segment.

Recent Market Developments

  • In March 2023, Red Bull debuted its Summer Edition range in the United Kingdom with a new Juneberry taste Energy Drinks. According to the brand, the Juneberry drinks are now available at major retailers across the country in single and multipack varieties.
  • In October 2022, Red Bull formed a strategic alliance with Keurig Dr. Pepper to market and sell its goods throughout Mexico.
  • In September 2022, to appeal to a broader consumer base, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) added two fresh flavors to its Monster line-up. Monster Reserve White Pineapple and Monster Reserve Watermelon are two flavors that have been added to Monster’s conventional Energy Drinks lineup.

Top Report Findings

  • The global Energy Drinks Market is valued at USD 79.59 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach a value of USD 139.6 billion by 2035 at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 5.25% between 2025 and 2035.
  • North America remains the dominant region due to high energy drink consumption rates, particularly in the U.S.
  • Rising health consciousness, changing consumer lifestyles, and expanding consumer awareness of health and wellness products are projected to drive the Energy Drinks market.
  • The cans sector will maintain its packaging supremacy, garnering the biggest market share globally from 2025 to 2035.
  • In 2024, North America had the highest revenue share of more than 30.60%.
  • From 2025 to 2035, Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing geographical market.

Challenges

Despite its rapid growth, the energy drinks market faces several pressing challenges. A major concern lies in the health risks associated with excessive caffeine intake, especially among young adults and teenagers. Reports of adverse health effects such as insomnia, hypertension, cardiac issues, and increased anxiety levels have triggered both public and regulatory scrutiny. Several governments around the world are considering regulations on marketing practices and product labeling, especially targeting underage consumers.

Another key challenge is high competition and market saturation. Established players dominate the shelves, making it difficult for newer brands to secure significant market share without heavy investments in branding and innovation. Moreover, fluctuations in raw material prices and supply chain constraints, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical instability, have increased operational costs. Consumers are also becoming more discerning, making brand loyalty increasingly difficult to achieve unless supported by genuinely differentiated products. Additionally, the criticism surrounding the promotion of energy drinks as lifestyle enhancers without disclosing potential health impacts adds reputational risk to brands in the spotlight.

Opportunities

Despite the challenges, the energy drinks sector is overflowing with promising opportunities for both emerging and established players. A substantial opportunity lies in the diversification and innovation of product offerings. By incorporating functional ingredients such as adaptogens, botanicals, probiotics, and nootropics, brands can create multi-benefit beverages that go beyond energy stimulation. The growing consumer base for health and wellness products presents a clear window for such innovation.

Another major opportunity is expansion into untapped markets, particularly in regions like Africa, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Europe, where urbanization and disposable incomes are rising. Digitalization also presents a massive growth avenue with AI and big data analytics, brands can tailor products and target marketing based on consumer behavior and preferences. Sustainable packaging solutions and embracing green manufacturing practices can also help companies secure environmentally conscious consumers.

Lastly, collaboration with fitness apps, sports equipment brands, or wellness influencers can facilitate stronger market positioning and brand loyalty in a competitive space that still has room for niche domination.

Key Questions Answered in the Market Report

  1. What is the current size and expected growth of the global energy drinks market?
  2. What are the major factors driving the demand for energy drinks?
  3. Which segment holds the largest market share regular energy drinks or sugar-free/functional variants?
  4. How has consumer behavior shifted in response to health and wellness trends?
  5. What role do government regulations and health advisories play in market dynamics?
  6. Who are the key players operating in the energy drinks sector and what strategies are they using?
  7. What are the major challenges faced by new entrants in the energy drinks space?
  8. How are regional markets, especially North America, contributing to the global market share?

Regional Analysis: North America

North America holds a commanding position in the global energy drinks market, driven predominantly by consumer behavior in the United States. As one of the earliest adopters of energy beverages, the U.S. has cultivated a strong affinity for stimulative drinks across various age groups, especially young adults aged 18–35. This region remains a hub for innovation, with frequent product launches aimed at specific audiences, including athletes, gamers, working professionals, and even parents seeking natural energy alternatives.

The preference for sugar-free, organic, and plant-based energy drinks is growing rapidly in North America. Consumers are actively reading labels and avoiding artificial sweeteners and excessive caffeine content. This shift has pushed many prominent brands to reformulate their products and focus on healthier ingredients. Furthermore, retail diversification including convenience stores, supermarkets, specialty health shops, and online platforms, has made energy drinks extremely accessible throughout urban and rural areas.

In terms of market players, brands like Red Bull, Monster, 5-hour Energy, and Bang hold major market shares. However, rising startups introducing natural or CBD-infused options are beginning to make waves. Government regulations, especially regarding caffeine caps and marketing to minors are becoming stricter, encouraging manufacturers to offer transparent labeling and regulated formulations. With high awareness levels, tech-enabled marketing, and a fitness-focused population, North America is set to remain at the forefront of this global market’s evolution.

Rising Demand for Market Data: Our Full Report Offers Deep Insights and Trend Analysis!

https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/energy-drinks-market-2398

Conclusion

The Energy Drinks Market continues to surge ahead as one of the most dynamic and fast-evolving segments in the global beverage industry. Driven by changing consumer lifestyles, increased health awareness, and the constant demand for functional, on-the-go beverages, the market presents vast opportunities for innovation and expansion. From the rise of clean-label, sugar-free drinks to the integration of nootropics, adaptogens, and natural caffeine, energy drink brands are redefining the future of functional beverages. While the industry faces notable challenges such as regulatory scrutiny, health concerns, and intense market competition, it equally offers fertile ground for growth in untapped markets, sustainable practices, and digital innovation. North America, as the market leader, continues to set trends and standards for the global industry, offering valuable insights into consumer preferences and product development. As consumer demands evolve and health-conscious consumption becomes more prevalent, companies that prioritize transparency, nutritional value, and ethical practices will likely emerge as leaders. The Energy Drinks Market is not just about delivering a dose of energy anymore — it’s about delivering purpose, functionality, and trust in every can.



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De Smet’s Haffner named Missouri volleyball coach of the year | Sports

De Smet Jesuit beat St. Louis University High at the Show Me Center in Cape Girardeau to win the state volleyball championship. (Photo provided) Photo provided De Smet Jesuit’s Tim Haffner was named Missouri High School Volleyball Coaches Association’s Coach of the Year. The Spartans ended a 34-1 season by winning the state boys volleyball […]

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DeSmet state champs

De Smet Jesuit beat St. Louis University High at the Show Me Center in Cape Girardeau to win the state volleyball championship. (Photo provided)




De Smet Jesuit’s Tim Haffner was named Missouri High School Volleyball Coaches Association’s Coach of the Year.

The Spartans ended a 34-1 season by winning the state boys volleyball championship. De Smet swept St. Louis University High in straight sets 25-14, 25-19, 25-19 at the Show Me Center in Cape Girardeau.

It also was Haffner’s 200th victory with the program.

This was the first state-recognized championship for De Smet. Last season was the first year the Missouri State High School Activities Association officially recognized volleyball as a sport for boys.

Haffner took over the De Smet program in 2016. He led the Spartans to the 2023 state championship with a record of 35-1. It was still a club sport then and not sanctioned by the MSHSAA.

Haffner, who teaches at Cor Jesu, was named the girls Class 5 Coach of the Year by the Missouri High School Volleyball Coaches Association after guiding the Chargers to the state championship in the 2021 season.







De Smet Tim Haffner

Tim Haffner. (Photo provided)




He’s the first coach to lead a girls and a boys team to a state volleyball championship.

 Haffner has won with Cor Jesu in 2021 and with De Smet in 2023 and 2025.

 “All three teams shared the same thing – a large senior class that really embraced what it meant to be a good teammate,” Haffner said.



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Bueckers, Flagg Headline NIL Store’s Top Awards

NIL Store Athletes to Earn +10% to Celebrate #NILDay (July 1) CHICAGO (June 30, 2025) – UConn’s Paige Bueckers and Duke’s Cooper Flagg were the NIL Store’s Top-Earning Female and Male Athletes of 2024-25, while UConn was named School Partner of the Year in the 2025 NIL Store Awards. The awards come a day in […]

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NIL Store Athletes to Earn +10% to Celebrate #NILDay (July 1)

CHICAGO (June 30, 2025) – UConn’s Paige Bueckers and Duke’s Cooper Flagg were the NIL Store’s Top-Earning Female and Male Athletes of 2024-25, while UConn was named School Partner of the Year in the 2025 NIL Store Awards.

The awards come a day in advance of the NIL Store’s 4th annual celebration of #NILDay, recognizing the passing of NIL legislation on July 1, 2021. In celebration, athletes will earn an extra 10% on all NIL Store sales on July 1.

More: nil.store/pages/awards

Bueckers was the top-selling overall athlete on the entire NIL Store platform, which includes more than 25,000 athletes from more than 100 institutions nationwide. It was Bueckers’ second straight year as the top-earning female athlete (Purdue’s Zach Edey was top earning overall last year).

UConn was the top-selling school on the NIL Store platform for the 2024-25 academic year, buoyed by the success of its National Champion women’s basketball program.

Full list of award winners below.

School Partner of the Year

  • WINNER: UConn

  • Finalists: DePaul, Florida, Louisville, Marquette

Top-Earning Female Athlete

  • WINNER: Paige Bueckers (UConn Women’s Basketball)

  • Finalists: Azzi Fudd (UConn Women’s Basketball), Flau’jae Johnson (LSU Women’s Basketball), Sarah Strong (UConn Women’s Basketball), Hannah Stuelke (Iowa Women’s Basketball)

Top-Earning Male Athlete

  • WINNER: Cooper Flagg (Duke Men’s Basketball)

  • Finalists: Dylan Harper (Rutgers Men’s Basketball), Ashton Jeanty (Boise State Football), Braden Smith (Purdue Men’s Basketball), Cam Skattebo (Arizona State Football)

Top-Earning Female Athlete (Olympic Sport)

  • WINNER: Lexi Rodriguez (Nebraska Volleyball)

  • Finalists: NiJaree Canady (Texas Tech Softball), Jordan Chiles (UCLA Gymnastics), Nora Hayd (Boise State Beach Volleyball), Karlyn Pickens (Tennessee Softball)

Top-Earning Female Athlete (Olympic Sport)

  • WINNER: Wehiwa Aloy (Arkansas Baseball)

  • Finalists: Kuhio Aloy (Arkansas Baseball), Kade Anderson (LSU Baseball), Trey Augustine (Michigan State Ice Hockey), Red Savage (Michigan State Ice Hockey)

Merch Moment of the Year

  • WINNER: Derik Queen (Maryland) – “I’m From Maryland, That’s Why”

  • Ashton Jeanty (Boise State) – The Boogeyman

  • Johnny Kinziger (Illinois State) – Victory Runs Red

  • Jack Sawyer (Ohio State) – Scoop and Score

  • St. John’s Mania – Official BIG EAST Championship gear

NIL Director of the Year

  • WINNER: Ben Chase (Florida)

  • Finalists: Logan Hittle (Ohio State), Zack McKay (Louisville), Haneen Rashwan (Baylor), Terrell Smith (Duke)

Licensing Director of the Year

  • WINNER: Larry Birkett (Marquette)

  • Finalists: Lindsay Martin (DePaul), Kyle Muncy (UConn), Jeri Thorpe (Arkansas)

School Activation of the Year

  • WINNER: Louisville – NIL In-Venue Installation & Promo at KFC YUM! Center

  • Baylor – We Pay Players

  • DePaul – City Edition Jerseys and Student Section Takeover

  • Illinois – Butkus/100th Season Collection

  • WKU – Big Red Collection

Philanthropic Spirit Award

  • WINNER: Blake Shapen (Mississippi State) – Blake’s Bulldogs

  • Sam Leavitt (Arizona State)

  • Sitori Tanin and Parker Van Buren (Loyola Chicago)

  • UConn Women’s Basketball

Most Innovative Design Collaboration

ABOUT CAMPUS INK AND THE NIL STORE

Backed by Mark Cuban, Campus Ink expanded into the Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) space in 2021 and launched the NIL Store which serves as a merchandising solution for student-athletes and schools across the country. The NIL Store operates with the firm belief that every student-athlete has an opportunity to capitalize on their NIL and should earn industry-leading payouts. Campus Ink was founded in 1947 on the campus of the University of Illinois and was reimagined in 2015 with an office in downtown Chicago and a production facility in Urbana, Ill., where the company handles all of its own production and fulfillment.



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