UConn signs on-field partnership deal with NIL collective

UConn is using an on-field sponsorship to draw attention to its NIL collective.

The Huskies announced a one-year deal on Monday with Storrs Central, the for-profit vertical of Bleeding Blue for Good. Full details of the financial agreement were not provided but the agreement is centered on raising NIL dollars. Bleeding Blue’s Storrs Central website’s logo will be featured on the field at Pratt & Whitney Stadium this season.

It’s an outside-the-box idea to draw attention to the collective. NIL entities have previously been featured on videoboards throughout stadiums. Now Storrs Central will have eye appeal on the field.

“In the era of NIL, it’s never been more important to proactively promote unique opportunities for our student-athletes,” UConn athletic director David Benedict said in a statement. “Bleeding Blue for Good and Storrs Central have been great partners as we navigate the continually changing landscape of college athletics.”

UConn exploring Big 12 move?

While it is only a one-year agreement, it allows UConn to evaluate sponsorship opportunities while supporting its athletes. The news comes as the Huskies evaluate making the jump to the Big 12. Benedict and UConn board chair Daniel Toscano met with Big 12 athletic directors in person in Dallas last week to make their case.

The talks are only in the early stages. UConn football wouldn’t head to the Big 12 until 2031 if talks move forward. Meanwhile, the Huskies are still independent and open the 2024 season on Saturday at Maryland.

“As the changing landscape of college football continues to accelerate, we are excited to have partners in Bleeding Blue for Good and Storrs Central working with our football program and our student-athletes,” UConn football coach Jim Mora said. “As our players continue to learn their value to the business of college athletics, and the power of their brand, the importance of supporting our student-athletes through NIL opportunities is critical to our ability to attract and keep the best and brightest wearing the UConn uniform.”