Since the NIL policy was changed in June 2021 to allow college athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness, Dunne has remained at the top. Her NIL valuation is a staggering .1 million – more than the combined value of Flau’jae Johnson (.5 million), Paige Bueckers (.5 million) and Kai Trump (.2 million). […]
Since the NIL policy was changed in June 2021 to allow college athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness, Dunne has remained at the top. Her NIL valuation is a staggering .1 million – more than the combined value of Flau’jae Johnson (.5 million), Paige Bueckers (.5 million) and Kai Trump (.2 million). Johnson, also from LSU, benefits from her dual career as a rapper, while Bueckers, despite recent struggles, is projected to be the first overall pick in the upcoming WNBA draft. Trump, a rising golf star and granddaughter of President Donald Trump, is expected to climb to the top of the NIL rankings once Dunne graduates, thanks to potential sponsorships from well-connected allies.
Dunne Grabs Major Honor in New Orleans
Few NCAAgymnasts in history have garnered as much attention as Olivia Dunne. The LSU star has built an empire beyond gymnastics, amassing nearly 14 million followers on TikTok and Instagram, making her one of the most influential college athletes today. As she enters her fifth and final season at LSU, Dunne has her sights set on back-to-back national championships – something Oklahoma Sooners last accomplished in 2022-23. However, questions have been raised about her commitment to the team after she missed two consecutive meets against Missouri and Alabama, both ranked opponents. With no reports of injury and with Coach Jay Clark yet to share anything concrete her absence has fueled speculation about where her priorities truly lie. On the other hand, Jade Carey has been in a league of her own this season. The Oregon State senior and Olympic gold medalist has dominated the NCAA season as she juts scored a stunning new national all-around record.As Grand Marshal, Dunne will lead a spectacle of more than 3,000 participants and 37 massive floats as they make their way through Mid-City and downtown New Orleans before passing through the Caesars Superdome. This honor not only solidifies her as a pop culture figure, but also highlights the growing influence of NIL athletes in areas far beyond sports. She may not have any Olympic medals, but Dunne’s reach in the digital age is undeniable, and this parade is yet another testament to her star power.
Dunne’s Power Among Women with the NIL
But Dunne has never had to step off the mat to make headlines. While her gymnastics career continues, she’s making waves elsewhere-this time as the grand marshal of the Endymion Parade. The event, known as the largest Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, has featured Hollywood icons such as David Schwimmer, Kevin Costner and Steven Seagal. Now Dunne is adding her name to that prestigious list. It’s unclear if she’s the first female gymnast or the first athlete in general to receive the honor, but either way, it’s a groundbreaking moment. Dan Kelly, captain of the Krewe of Endymion, explained why Dunne was chosen: “Her spirit and energy reflect that of Mardi Gras, and we can’t wait to celebrate this special occasion with her at the helm.
