This is proof that delayed does not mean denied.
The University of Connecticut men’s basketball star Adama Sanogo has officially signed his first name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal. According to CT Insider, the college athlete is partnering with gas station company Sunoco by offering fans a chance to win a signed jersey, which features a design playing off of the similarity between Sanogo’s name and the company’s.
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Sanogo's Ineligible Status
Sanogo has been ineligible to reap the benefits of NIL deals in the United States as he is a Mali native on a student visa. While the deal has been sealed, only two scenarios would allow the college basketball sensation to profit.
Firstly, had Sunoco approached Sanogo with a deal that was signed and executed outside of the United States, he would be able to make money. A second option may already be in motion. Sanogo is reportedly working on his eligibility for the NBA Draft, in which he would forgo his remaining college eligibility.
Looking Ahead To The Future
At this time, he still hasn’t made a decision on his plans for the future.
“I’m definitely talking to my family,” he said during the UConn Victory parade on Saturday (April 15). “I’m talking to my agency and stuff. So we’re going to make the best decision soon, for sure. The next couple weeks, yeah. No decision yet.”
While Sanogo had an amazing run during the NCAA Tournament, playing a key role in the Huskies’ victory over the San Diego State Aztecs, his inability to profit from an NIL deal was the talk of the town for most of the event.
