LSU Extends Partnership with Nike, Chosen to Launch Blue Ribbon Elite NIL Program
BATON ROUGE — LSU Athletics and Nike have extended their five-decade partnership through 2036, the school announced Thursday. LSU will also serve as the launch site for Nike’s new Blue Ribbon Elite NIL program, a first-of-its-kind initiative focused on athlete branding, innovation, and creative collaboration.
Ten LSU athletes across multiple sports will headline the program, including Kailin Chio, Derek Curiel, Tori Edwards, Casan Evans, Trey’Dez Green, Jayden Heavener, ZaKiyah Johnson, DJ Pickett, Jurnee Robinson, and Dedan Thomas Jr.
Director of Athletics Verge Ausberry said the partnership reflects LSU’s commitment to leading the NIL landscape, while Nike executives highlighted the opportunity for athletes to influence product design, storytelling, and culture.
Student-athletes expressed excitement about joining Nike’s roster, calling the brand “GOAT,” “empowering,” and a lifelong dream.
With the launch of Blue Ribbon Elite taking place in Baton Rouge, LSU and Nike continue to position themselves at the forefront of the evolving college sports model.
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