Bryce Young Has Already Won
Irwin Kishner, co-chair of Herrick's Sports Law Group, was quoted in a Boardroom article on college quarterback Bryce Young’s career trajectory and notable financial successes. Young is starting quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide is one of the most decorated players for Alabama who, according to the article, now has notable deals with significant national brands ranging from restaurant chains to streaming services. Ahead of the national championship game against Georgia, Young has secured a Heisman Trophy, the AP Player of the Year Award and the Maxwell award as well as an iconic victory over his school's rival, the Auburn Tigers.
Kishner speculated on which brands may be next to secure a NIL (name, image, likeness) deal with Young and suggested a cryptocurrency platform. He stated, "The other big category is going to be crypto," adding, "Crypto has grown really big in sports [so] it’s just a matter of time before crypto platforms are associated with these stars."
Concurring with Kishner's take, the article cited Crypto.com's $700 million purchase of arena formerly known Staples Center in December and their 10-year, $175 million deal with the UFC in July of last year.
Kisher pointed out that, regardless of the outcome of the national championship game, Young will continue to attract big brands. Kishner stated, "I think he is going to garner interest no matter what happens on Monday[.]"