Not all NIL opportunities are multimillion-dollar brand deals. New programs from Marquette University and the University of South Dakota prove that NIL contributions can be as little as a few dollars. These low-cost opportunities are a part of the school’s NIL collectives and allow fans to pledge their support of the men’s and women’s basketball teams.
At Marquette, the “Pledge-Per-Three” initiative, created by Be the Difference NIL, allows fans to contribute to the NIL fund for every three-point shot made in the 2024-25 season. All contributions throughout the season will be doubled thanks to an anonymous donor. All donors will also receive a signed poster from the men’s and women’s basketball team.
Travis Diener, executive director of the NIL collective, told GoMarquette.com, “At Be the Difference NIL, we remain committed to ensuring Marquette student-athletes are presented with top NIL opportunities. There is much anticipation for Marquette in the upcoming season, and I encourage those invested in the success of our basketball programs to join this initiative."
The minimum pledge for the Marquette program is $3, but the online form allows custom contributions as well. Super fans who are interested in supporting Marquette’s student-athletes in a big way can contribute upwards of $5,000 per three-pointer.
At the University of South Dakota, fans can pledge per win for the 2024-25 season. The minimum pledge is $5. Coyote fans can fill out the online form with their donation preferences. Then, their credit cards will be charged the allotted amount after each South Dakota victory.
Goyotes.com said the goal of the program is so, “South Dakota fans can help provide resources for student-athletes to succeed in the classroom and in competition. The goal of this initiative is to provide fans an avenue to celebrate each win this season, while directly supporting student-athletes.”
