Kareem Watkins joins DJ Wagner for NIL deal with Marathon

DJ Wagner and Kareem Watkins have known each other since long before they came to Kentucky to play basketball. And now, thanks to NIL, the two half-brothers from Camden, NJ were able to join forces for a new commercial.

In Marathon’s “Co-Pilot Series”, Wagner partnered with the gas company to help surprise Watkins with a gift card. In the below video, Wagner talked about his relationship with Watkins (they like to fish and bowl together) and how he admires Watkins’ laid-back attitude.

“I’ve always been able to trust and look up to my big brother,” Wagner wrote on Instagram. “Thanks, @reemwat for being my co-pilot in life🤞🏽 and thank you, @marathonfuel for helping me surprise him with a gift card and allowing me to share our story. #MarathonPartner🔥🔥”

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Wagner, a 6-foot-4 freshman point guard, has taken full advantage of the new NIL space in college athletics since arriving at Kentucky. Along with his new partnership with Marathon, he’s also signed deals with Nike and local exotic car dealership Lex Exotics.

His moves off the court have translated onto the court, as well. Through 10 games this season (all starts), Wagner has averaged 11.7 points, 3.6 assists, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in 26.5 minutes per outing. He’s already won SEC Freshman of the Week twice this season.