Things have escalated so rapidly. The first year of NIL we paid two prominent basketball players $500 each to attend our tailgate on separate dates. They were genuinely appreciative and I still get occasional texts from them today. The second year we contracted with two others then Red changed practice time at the last minute and caused a conflict. Pete Corasiniti called me at the tailgate and said they had asked to leave practice a bit early to fulfill their obligation to me. He couldn’t allow it but we agreed to amend the contract and allow an abbreviated appearance as the tailgate was tearing down. The third year we had an agreement with one starter and one prominent reserve. They signed contracts, then apparently didn’t feel it was worth getting out of bed to make a 9 am commitment. Thankfully Orange United was involved and cancelled payment.
We had a $2500 offer out to a starter who tested the NBA waters and decided to return but he laughed at it and said he wouldn’t even answer a phone call for less that $10,000. Deal was for a one hour appearance with additional money offered for signed photos.
Had great experiences with a grass roots effort that included 120+ donors and raised $68k over three years but the market for men’s basketball and football players made it obsolete. I do feel for student athletes from other sports who still appreciate a modest stipend and a chance to interact with fans. But the priorities are clear. Modest level donors are being asked to fund revenue sharing while high rollers and corporate sponsors handle major NIL deals. Have to admit it does make some sense.
