Monetizing Your Personal Brand: CAECAY Empowering Student Athletes, Entertainers, Celebrities, and Influencers with NIL Expertise

Monetizing Your Personal Brand: Empowering Student Athletes and Entertainers with CAECAY’s 50 Years of Expertise in NIL

In today’s digital age, the power of personal branding has never been more apparent. For student athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and influencers, the ability to monetize their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) has become a game-changer. Thanks to the NCAA’s recent policy change allowing college student athletes to profit from their NIL, a world of opportunities has opened up. Leading the way in this transformative landscape is the Congress of Athletes Entertainers and Celebrities Creating Alternatives for Youths (CAECAY). With over 50 years of experience and a commitment to empowering individuals, CAECAY, in collaboration with esteemed organizations and personalities like the Aaron & Margaret Wallace Foundation, AMWF, Abdul-Jalil al-Hakim, Superstar Management, Ex-why AdVentures, and Nowtruth, is poised to revolutionize the world of NIL monetization.

Advertising Campaign: “Unlock Your Potential with CAECAY’s NIL Monetization Program”

Campaign Objective:
To raise awareness among student athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and influencers about the Congress of Athletes Entertainers and Celebrities Creating Alternatives for Youths (CAECAY) and its NIL Monetization Program. The campaign aims to showcase the opportunities available through monetizing Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and encourage individuals to leverage their personal brand for financial success.

Campaign Slogan:
“Embrace Your Power. Monetize Your Influence. Join CAECAY’s NIL Revolution!”

Target Audience:
Student Athletes, Entertainers, Celebrities, and Influencers seeking to monetize their NIL and earn income from their personal brand.
Athletes, Entertainers, Celebrities, and Influencers looking to expand their revenue streams and maximize their reach.
Coaches, mentors, and industry professionals who support and guide athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and influencers.

Campaign Elements:
Motion Picture, Television, Video, Radio, Audio, Print Commercial/Ads, Social Media, Podcast, Blog/Vlog, Web Ads:
Create visually captivating and inspiring commercial ads that highlight the success stories of athletes, entertainers, and influencers who have benefited from CAECAY’s NIL Monetization Program. Showcase the various avenues of income generation, such as autograph signings, coaching lessons/clinics, social media endorsements, and appearances at restaurants or events.

Digital Advertisements:
Develop engaging digital ads for social media platforms, websites, and mobile apps. These ads will:
Feature compelling visuals and persuasive messaging to capture attention and generate interest.
Highlight the financial opportunities available through NIL monetization and CAECAY’s expertise in the field.
Direct viewers to the CAECAY website or dedicated landing page for more information and enrollment.

Influencer Collaborations:
Partner with influential athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and social media influencers who have successfully monetized their NIL. They will serve as brand ambassadors and share their experiences, insights, and endorsement of CAECAY’s NIL Monetization Program through:
Sponsored social media posts and stories.
Live streams or recorded videos discussing the benefits of NIL monetization and CAECAY’s support.
Collaborative content, such as Q&A sessions or exclusive interviews, showcasing their journey and financial success.

Educational Webinars and Workshops:
Organize informative webinars and workshops led by industry experts and professionals from CAECAY. These sessions will cover topics like:
Understanding the legal aspects and guidelines of NIL monetization.
Building and managing a personal brand for maximum impact.
Social media strategies to enhance engagement and attract sponsorships.
Financial planning and wealth management for long-term success.
Contract negotiations and endorsement opportunities.

PR and Media Outreach:
Engage with media outlets, sports networks, and entertainment platforms to share the success stories of individuals who have thrived through CAECAY’s NIL Monetization Program. Provide press releases, interviews, and media kits highlighting the transformative experiences and financial gains achieved by program participants.

Campus Activations and Events:
Organize interactive events and activations on college campuses, sports venues, and entertainment hubs. These activities may include:
Panel discussions featuring industry experts, successful athletes, entertainers, and influencers sharing their NIL monetization journey.
Autograph signings, meet-and-greets, or mini-clinics conducted by prominent athletes or entertainers.
Competitions or challenges encouraging students to showcase their talent and entrepreneurial spirit.
Sponsorship of sporting events or concerts, leveraging CAECAY’s presence to connect with the target audience.

Measurement and Evaluation:
Track website traffic, click-through rates, and conversions from digital advertisements.
Monitor social media analytics to assess reach, engagement, and audience sentiment.
Measure the number of enrollments and inquiries received through the campaign period.
Conduct surveys and feedback sessions to gauge awareness, perception, and satisfaction among the target audience.
Monitor media coverage, including press mentions, interviews, and features, to evaluate campaign reach and impact.

CAECAY recognizes that student athletes and entertainers possess unique talents and personal brands that can be harnessed for financial gain. Through their comprehensive program, they equip individuals with the knowledge, tools, and support necessary to leverage their NIL effectively. Whether it’s signing autographs, coaching lessons and clinics, social media endorsements, or appearances at restaurants and events, CAECAY’s program provides the guidance needed to maximize earning potential. Their expertise and proven track record make them an invaluable resource for those seeking to monetize their personal brand.

Empowering Through Education:
One of CAECAY’s core principles is education. They understand the importance of equipping student athletes and entertainers with the skills and knowledge required to navigate the complexities of NIL monetization. Through their partnership with industry experts and professionals, CAECAY offers educational webinars and workshops that cover a wide range of topics. From legal aspects and guidelines surrounding NIL monetization to building and managing a personal brand, participants gain valuable insights and practical strategies for success. CAECAY’s dedication to empowering individuals through education sets them apart as a leader in the field.

A Network of Support:
CAECAY’s network of influential organizations and personalities provides participants with unparalleled opportunities for growth and collaboration. The Aaron & Margaret Wallace Foundation, AMWF, Abdul-Jalil al-Hakim, Superstar Management, Ex-why AdVentures, and Nowtruth bring their expertise, connections, and resources to the table, ensuring participants receive the support they need to thrive. With their guidance, individuals can navigate the intricacies of contract negotiations, endorsement deals, and wealth management, fostering long-term success in their careers.

Creating Alternatives for Youths:
Beyond the individual benefits, CAECAY’s mission extends to creating alternatives for youths. By empowering student athletes and entertainers to monetize their NIL, CAECAY generates opportunities that not only shape their own futures but also provide inspiration and pathways for aspiring young talents. Through mentorship programs, community engagements, and outreach initiatives, CAECAY strives to make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals, creating a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the realm of sports and entertainment.

As the landscape of collegiate sports and entertainment continues to evolve, CAECAY stands at the forefront, offering a comprehensive program that unlocks the financial potential of student athletes and entertainers through NIL monetization.
Through an integrated advertising campaign encompassing television commercials, digital advertisements, influencer collaborations, educational webinars, PR outreach, and campus activations, CAECAY aims to empower student athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and influencers to monetize their NIL. By showcasing success stories, providing educational resources, and fostering strategic partnerships, the campaign will drive awareness and engagement, positioning CAECAY as a trusted partner in unlocking financial opportunities through NIL monetization.
With their 50 years of experience, partnerships with influential organizations and personalities, and dedication to education and empowerment, CAECAY is paving the way for a new era of financial opportunities. By joining forces with the Aaron & Margaret Wallace Foundation, AMWF, Abdul-Jalil al-Hakim, Superstar Management, Ex-why AdVentures, and Nowtruth, CAECAY creates a formidable alliance that is set to revolutionize the world of NIL. Together, they provide the guidance, resources, and support needed for individuals to maximize their personal brand and create a prosperous future.

CAECAY Maximizing Athletes, Entertainers, Celebrities, and Influencers Brand Potential

Title: Maximizing Athlete’s Brand Potential: A Marketing Plan for the Congress of Athletes Entertainers and Celebrities Creating Alternatives for Youths (CAECAY)
In today’s evolving landscape of sports and entertainment, the ability for college student athletes to monetize their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) has opened up unprecedented opportunities. The Congress of Athletes Entertainers and Celebrities Creating Alternatives for Youths (CAECAY), in collaboration with the Aaron & Margaret Wallace Foundation (AMWF), Abdul-Jalil al-Hakim, Superstarmanagement.com, Superstar Management, Ex-why AdVentures, ex-why.com, Nowtruth.org, and Nowtruth, aims to leverage their collective 50 years of experience to support athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and influencers in maximizing their earning potential through NIL initiatives. CAECAY and its affiliated platforms are established as industry leaders in assisting athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and influencers in monetizing their NIL. This marketing plan outlines strategies to effectively promote and harness the power of NIL for these individuals.
Objectives:
Educate and guide student athletes on the benefits, legalities, and best practices of NIL monetization.
Facilitate brand partnerships and endorsement opportunities for athletes and influencers.
Generate awareness and engagement through targeted marketing campaigns.
Drive revenue growth for individuals involved in the program.
Target Audience:
College student athletes looking to monetize their personal brand through NIL initiatives.
Brands and businesses seeking authentic partnerships with athletes and influencers.
Sports enthusiasts and fans interested in engaging with their favorite athletes on a more personal level.
Marketing Strategies:
a) Establish an Online Presence:
Develop a comprehensive website (e.g., CAECAY.org) as a central hub for information, resources, and success stories related to NIL monetization.
Optimize the website for search engines to enhance visibility and organic traffic.
Create engaging content, including articles, blog posts, and videos, highlighting the benefits and success stories of athletes who have monetized their NIL.

b) Educational Programs and Workshops:
Organize workshops, webinars, and seminars to educate student athletes on the nuances of NIL monetization, including legal considerations, branding strategies, and contract negotiations.
Collaborate with universities, sports organizations, and player associations to deliver comprehensive educational programs.

c) Athlete Representation and Management:
Offer professional representation and management services to athletes and influencers seeking to monetize their NIL.
Provide guidance in brand development, contract negotiations, and endorsement opportunities.
Foster relationships with industry experts, including lawyers, marketers, and financial advisors, to offer comprehensive support to clients.

d) Brand Partnerships and Endorsements:
Identify and connect athletes and influencers with suitable brand partnerships and endorsement opportunities.
Develop a database of brands interested in collaborating with athletes and influencers to promote their products or services.
Leverage AMWF’s online platform, amwftrust.org, to facilitate connections between athletes, influencers, and brands.

e) Social Media and Digital Campaigns:
Utilize social media platforms to amplify the reach and engagement of athletes and influencers.
Create compelling content showcasing athletes’ personal stories, training routines, and community involvement.
Implement targeted advertising campaigns to reach specific demographics and increase brand visibility.
Measurement and Evaluation:
Track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, social media engagement, brand partnerships secured, and revenue generated through NIL initiatives.
Conduct regular surveys and feedback sessions to gather insights from athletes, influencers, and brand partners.
Use analytics tools to monitor the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and make data-driven adjustments.
Budget Allocation:
Allocate a budget for website development and maintenance, content creation, social media advertising, event organization, and educational programs.
Regularly review and optimize the budget based on the effectiveness of each initiative.
Conclusion:
With the recent changes allowing college student athletes to monetize their NIL, there is a significant opportunity for CAECAY, AMWF, Abdul-Jalil al-Hakim, and their affiliated platforms to provide guidance and support to athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and influencers. By implementing a strategic marketing plan that focuses on establishing an online presence, delivering educational programs, facilitating brand partnerships, and leveraging digital campaigns, CAECAY can help maximize the earning potential of individuals in the NIL era. This approach will not only empower athletes and influencers but also create mutually beneficial relationships with brands and enhance fan engagement.

Leveraging 50 Years of Experience for Athletes, Entertainers, Celebrities, and Influencers in the NIL Era

Leveraging 50 Years of Experience for Athletes, Entertainers, Celebrities, and Influencers in the NIL Era

The Congress of Athletes Entertainers and Celebrities Creating Alternatives for Youths (CAECAY), in partnership with the Aaron & Margaret Wallace Foundation (AMWF) and its online platform amwftrust.org, Abdul-Jalil al-Hakim, Superstarmanagement.com, Superstar Management, Ex-why AdVentures, ex-why.com, Nowtruth.org, and Nowtruth marketing plan outlines strategies to capitalize on the 50 years of experience and expertise with the objective to harness the influence of athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and influencers to maximize their earning potential in the new era of Name, image and likeness (NIL) monetization for college student athletes.

Introduction:
The recent change in NCAA regulations allows college student athletes to monetize their personal brand and NIL. This presents a significant opportunity to leverage the extensive experience and networks of CAECAY, AMWF, Abdul-Jalil al-Hakim, Superstar Management, Ex-why AdVentures, Nowtruth and their affiliated platforms to support student athletes in maximizing their earning potential.

Target Audience:
The primary target audience for this marketing plan includes:

College student athletes seeking to monetize their NIL
Brands, businesses, and organizations interested in partnering with student athletes for promotional activities
Fans, followers, and supporters of student athletes looking to engage with their favorite athletes on a more personal level

Marketing Strategies:
a) Establish a Comprehensive Online Presence:
Create a dedicated website (e.g., NILPros.com) as a central hub to showcase the services, expertise, and success stories of CAECAY, AMWF, Abdul-Jalil al-Hakim, Superstar Management, Ex-why AdVentures, Nowtruth and other affiliated entities.
Develop engaging content, including blog posts, articles, and case studies, highlighting the benefits and potential of NIL monetization.
Leverage social media platforms to connect with target audiences, share educational content, and promote success stories.

Educational Outreach and Workshops:
Organize seminars, workshops, and webinars targeting student athletes, educating them on the opportunities, legalities, and best practices of NIL monetization.
Collaborate with universities, sports organizations, and student athlete associations to conduct comprehensive training sessions.

Athlete Representation and Management:
Offer professional representation and management services to student athletes, providing guidance in branding, contract negotiations, and endorsements.
Develop a network of industry experts, including lawyers, marketing professionals, and financial advisors, to provide holistic support.

Brand Partnerships and Sponsorships:
Identify and connect student athletes with suitable brand partnerships and sponsorships that align with their personal brand and values.
Facilitate collaborations through AMWF’s online platform, amwftrust.org, connecting brands and student athletes for promotional opportunities.

Events and Experiential Marketing:
Organize and promote live events, autograph signings, coaching clinics, and appearances featuring student athletes to engage fans and generate revenue.
Collaborate with local businesses, restaurants, and venues to create unique experiences centered around student athletes.
Promotion and Advertising:

Digital Marketing:
Utilize targeted online advertising campaigns to reach student athletes, sports enthusiasts, and potential brand partners.
Implement search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to increase the visibility and ranking of the dedicated NIL-focused website.

Influencer Marketing:
Leverage the influence and reach of established athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and social media influencers to promote the benefits of NIL monetization.
Encourage testimonials and endorsements from successful student athletes who have benefitted from NIL opportunities.

Media Relations:
Develop strategic partnerships with media outlets, sports publications, and online platforms to amplify the message and generate positive press coverage.
Provide media outlets with exclusive access to success stories and case studies to highlight the effectiveness of the NIL monetization strategies.

Measurement and Evaluation:
Regularly assess the effectiveness of marketing efforts by monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, engagement metrics, lead generation, brand partnerships secured, and revenue generated for student athletes.

Budget:
Allocate a sufficient budget for digital marketing campaigns, event organization, content creation, and strategic partnerships. Regularly review and optimize the budget allocation based on the effectiveness of each initiative.

By leveraging the 50 years of experience of CAECAY, AMWF, Abdul-Jalil al-Hakim, Superstar Management, Ex-why AdVentures, Nowtruth and their affiliated platforms, this marketing plan aims to position them as industry leaders in helping student athletes monetize their NIL. Through comprehensive online presence, educational outreach, athlete representation, brand partnerships, and targeted promotions, the plan seeks to empower student athletes and drive success in the new era of NIL monetization.

Dreams Money Can Buy: LSU’s NIL-powered Superteam is exactly what college sports needs

The Bayou’s budding Superteam is great for college sports.
XAVIER HANDY-HAMILTON

From a fairness standpoint, the NIL era has been beautiful for the college athlete. No longer do they have to sacrifice their bodies with little to nothing in return other than the expectation for them to be grateful because they now have a “free” education.

From an entertainment standpoint, the influx of NIL contracts has led to an inflation in “stardom.” When a lineman at a mid-major can have his agent negotiate a burrito deal for him, it becomes hard to decipher who the real stars are. If a program inks a player to a 6 figure-plus deal, it’s in the school’s interest to push them to the forefront despite their true impact on winning.

Ironically, the clarity college sports is seeking can be found in the muddy waters of the Mississippi.

The legend of Angel Reese is just getting started. Fresh off LSU’s national championship win and her boastful post-game actions, the budding star has quickly become a hot commodity in the NIL world.

Kim Mulkey and the LSU Tigers have conducted a crash-course in how to effectively utilize NIL money. Instead of using the cash to boost players with potential, hoping they pan out, Mulkey and the Tigers have operated the last two offseasons like a professional front office. To build 2023’s National Championship team, they grabbed a proven star in Angel Reese from Maryland and surrounded her with experienced role players out of the portal, some of whom played for Mulkey’s Baylor teams or were recruited by her in high school.

Reese’s polarizing personality — at its brightest in the runaway National Championship win over Iowa and Caitlyn Clark — and capable skills on the court pushed her past the pack of college players who have been tagged with the “star” label into a lane of her own now. And while the majority of collegiate impact players are leagues behind their professional counterparts when it comes to notoriety, it can be argued that the “Bayou Barbie” is now the biggest name in all of women’s basketball. That’s real superstardom.

The story could end here (don’t worry, it doesn’t). With a true star like Reese returning and a bubbling second option in Flau’jae “Big 4” Johnson, Mulkey’s Tigers looked poised to once again compete with South Carolina, Iowa and the top of women’s basketball for another National Championship.

Yet, like any good professional general manager, Mulkey didn’t waste an opportunity to get better just because she had stable pieces.

Instead, Mulkey hitched up the F-150, backed her boat into the banks of the Transfer Portal and went fishing. Unlike last year, she wasn’t just looking for role pieces that complement her star forward. This time, she was looking to reel in the big catfish. The ones that break records, not just supply a fry. And, boy did her catch tip the scales this offseason.

LSU walked away from the portal with commitments from Louisville’s top guard Hailey Van Lith — who 247Sports’ expert contributor Brandon Clay had pegged as the No. 2 player in the women basketball transfer portal. The Tigers didn’t stop there. They also hauled in Clay’s No. 1 player in the portal, DePaul forward Aneesah Morrow.

This gives LSU a potential starting line up that contains Van Lith, Big 4, Morrow and the Bayou Barbie. For fans who don’t get how pivotal this is, it’s basically the equivalent of a Cash Money Hot Boys track. No matter where you turn, there’s either an experienced spitter waiting in the wings or a young, hungry rapper on the attack. The beat (or opposing defense in this case) has no chance to relax.

The Bayou’s budding superteam is great for college sports in general. Not only does it bring light to women’s sports, but each member of this quartet brings a unique approach to the game that any fan can get behind.

Van Lith is a Kobe disciple. She trained with the Mamba in high school and it shows with her explosive offensive game and aggressive scoring. She embraces all the things fans loved about Bean, but this also comes with an attitude that can rub some of the “basketball purists” the wrong way.

Now, if you’re into a do-it-all, “blue collar” star, then look no further than All-American Aneesah Morrow. The DePaul standout averaged 25.7 points and 12.2 rebounds per game last season with an outstanding usage rate. She’s able to initiate the offense while also doing the dirty work.

As for Big 4 (Flau’jae “Big 4” Johnson, if you forgot): her development and production will be a bit of a question mark given that she’ll have to defer the ball to more experienced players. But what isn’t unknown is her ability to find a spark. She’s shown countless times during LSU’s title run that she’s capable of getting hot in a hurry. This will put stress on opposing defenses as they try to limit Van Lith, Morrow and Reese just to get torched by Johnson. It will also continue to make her a fan-favorite as her dagger shots will likely come in high demand.

Angel Reese speaks for herself. Like Morrow, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to win but has the boisterous personality that will intrigue fans who are into the style points (I’m part of this demographic, myself). Similar to Van Lith, Reese doesn’t back down from a chance to challenge the moment, so it’s hard to say that her on-court personality isn’t warranted.

Outside of their on-court production, the fact that nothing seemed forced or constructed will make LSU’s pending superteam a crossover hit. They aren’t painting disses to their opponents on their fingernails or turning their name into condiments. They’re genuinely themselves at all times and refuse to step outside of their personalities. It just so happens that their natural personas seem to balance each other and that realness resonates with fans.

As tenacious as Van Lith comes off, it still doesn’t seem like a “tough guy (or girl)” act. As for Reese, she didn’t just put on this personality once she started winning at LSU. That’s just the first time you guys started paying attention to her. But if you cared to do research, you can find videos of her at Saint Frances Academy in Baltimore antagonizing and dominating her opponents the same way she did during the title game.

Although Morrow’s hard work, no-nonsense approach to the game balances the scale that’s leaning Reese and Van Lith’s way, it isn’t fake humility. She built herself into one of the best players in the game at DePaul without the glitz and glamor of a major program. DePaul head coach Doug Bruno details how Morrow sets goals for herself before every game only to shatter them during the contest.

“Aneesah talks about goals,” Bruno said. “She’s got individual goals for every game and individual goals for the season. She’s got individual goals for when she graduates from DePaul. But to reach those goals, she has to keep getting better.”

It’s hard to hate on someone who leaves no stone unturned when perfecting their craft, even though they’re already near the top. This only further proves to spectators that she deserves the NIL boost and to finally take her spot on the big stage.

For Johnson, she’s not an athlete with an affinity for rapping who releases cringe-worthy freestyles just because they have access to a professional studio. No. She’s a real recording artist who has a distribution deal with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation record label. Johnson dedicates time to her craft in the booth and on the court with aspirations of starting her own record label in the future. As a result, it’s easy to accept her raps as part of her personality. Fans can get behind her “Big 4” persona because they know it’s naturally her and not something she’s doing as a gimmick.

This collective of real stars will do wonders for college sports, but it will definitely spell out trouble for the WNBA. Reese, the hottest name in the sport, has said on several occasions that she doesn’t even think about going pro. And why would she?

While the world has been belting out the opening line of NBA YoungBoy’s “Fresh Prince of Utah,” Reese really did bring a parade to the rapper’s hometown where she’s treated (and compensated) like a superstar, making over $1 million in NIL money. She’s going to grace Sports Illustrated’s “Swimsuit Edition”, flies in chartered jets to LSU away games with her teammates, frequently goes on elaborate shopping sprees that she documents on social media and just bought herself a new Mercedes. What more could a 21-year-old want?

In comparison, A’ja Wilson (two-time WNBA MVP, a WNBA Defensive Player of the Year and a WNBA champion) is set to make $202,115 in the 2023-24 season. Candace Parker, a sure-fire, first ballot Hall of Fame player, told the media that her decision to team up with Wilson on the Aces was partly fueled by the team’s new facilities. Parker explained that at no point in her illustrious career did she have a locker to call her own until Las Vegas built its new arena.

That puts Reese in the rare space where her personal brand would be taking a step back if she chooses to go pro. The same can be said for Van Lith, who is reportedly making over $500,000 in NIL and Johnson, who is set to pocket a little under $1 million herself this year. The WNBA will need to scramble to find ways to bridge the pay gap between its salaries and NIL if it wants to compete for these real college superstars and the future players who will undoubtedly follow their financial footprints.

Fortunately for the WNBA (and college sports fans), Reese and Van Lith don’t have to cross that bridge for at least another year. Because right now, Mulkey and Co. are solely focused on actualizing the potential of this superteam by bringing home another banner to the Bayou.

LSU’s Angel Reese Dominating NIL Space, Agrees to Deal With SI Swimsuit
Reese has become one of the most marketable athletes, signs another noteworthy deal.

All-American forward Angel Reese continues maximizing her opportunities in the NIL space after entering an agreement to be featured in this year’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition. The LSU star will be accompanied by fellow Tiger Livvy Dunne as the only two college athletes in the magazine.

“Angel entered into a standard agreement with SI Swimsuit to appear in print and digital editorial media for the publication and to attend the launch event,” Sports Illustrated tells LSU Country.

The edition of the magazine will be released on May 12th with both Reese and Dunne being the first college athletes to ever be featured.

“We’ve done so much within a year,” Reese told SI. “We weren’t even supposed to be in the Final Four. We had nine new players, and it was coach [Kim Mulkey]’s second year in the SEC, so we didn’t know what to expect. We just went out there and had fun all the time and put in a lot of work all season.”

LSU has dominated the NIL space over the last year. From Reese to Dunne to other student athletes adding monstrous deals, it’s clear the university is ahead of the curve in this new era of college athletics.

After Reese made the move from Maryland to LSU, her status continued to skyrocket. With sheer dominance on the court, averaging a cool 23 points and 15 rebounds a game, her status off the floor became much more marketable.

The superstar forward led the Tigers to their first national title in program history, and after the championship game, it’s been nonstop for Reese. She’s been featured on Good Morning America, signed a deal with Mercedes Benz, Coach and much more as her NIL valuation reaches the $1.4 million mark via On3’s system.

Reese has the chance to keep the momentum rolling as she goes through the offseason before the 2023-24 season. Despite being eligible for the 2024 WNBA Draft, Reese has stated she’s “in no rush” to leave college. Time will tell, but for now, Reese is living in the moment as she transforms women’s basketball. 

Detroit Kronk Boxing Icon and Legend in Boxing History Emanuel Steward Dies at 68

Detroit Kronk Boxing Icon and Legend Emanuel Steward Dies at 68
Emanuel Steward, the godfather of Detroit boxing and driving force behind the world-famous Kronk Gym, died Thursday, October 25, 2012 surrounded by his family. Steward died in Zion, Ill., where he had been treated at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

Steward, 68, the man who discovered and mentored the great Thomas Hearns, had fought for several weeks against a foe thought by many to be colon cancer — although his sister, Diane Steward-Jones, publicly described the ailment as diverticulitis.

“He has passed — he has gone home,” Steward-Jones told the Free Press by phone less than half an hour after Steward’s death. “He was in no pain, and we sang to him, as well as did the doctors present. He had loved ones around him.”

One of the greatest trainers in the history of boxing, Steward underwent surgery in the Chicago area in September and had not returned to his Rosedale Park home. He died peacefully at 2:46 p.m. Thursday, said Steward-Jones, who handled business matters and public relations for her brother. The body of the boxing icon was returned to Detroit.

Steward-Jones said that, toward the end, her brother still was trying to recruit male nurses and other medical staff at the hospital to box for him.

“They loved him,” Steward-Jones said. “He’d tell them to lose some weight and fight for him.”

As she spoke to the Free Press, Steward-Jones said she was trying to stay busy tidying up Steward’s hospital room.

“He gave it his all,” she said. “But he’s been called away now.”

Steward’s sister, Diane Steward-Jones, told the Free Press today that a memorial service tentatively has been set for the Hall of Fame fight trainer on Nov. 13 at Greater Grace Temple (23500 W. 7 Mile Road in Detroit). There will be visitation with family and friends at 11 a.m. on Nov. 13 at Greater Grace Temple in Detroit followed by a noon memorial service at the church. Manny was survived by his wife, Marie; daughters, Sylvia Steward-Williams and Sylvette Steward; and sisters, Diane-Steward Jones and Lavern Hestler

Steward, who lived in Rosedale Park, was training world heavyweight champ Wladamir Klitschko prior to falling ill several months ago.

Born in Bottom Creek, W.Va., Steward moved at age 12 with his mother to Detroit, where he became a street-smart kid with a short fuse and quick fists.

In a life-changing move away from street gangs, Steward joined the Brewster Recreation Center and began an amateur boxing career, where in 1963, 18-year old Emanuel Steward, fighting as a bantamweight, won the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions.

He looked forward to a career as a professional, but after failing to find what he considered to be honest management and with his family needing his financial support, Steward became a lineman with the city before he and his half brother, James Steward, began coaching at the Kronk, a hotbed for young amateur fighters on McGraw in Detroit. But he never wandered too far from the fight game.

In 1971 Steward accepted a part-time position as head coach of the boxing program at the Kronk Recreation Center. When his young team won the Detroit Golden Gloves team title that same year, the Kronk Dynasty was born. Steward took the Kronk to dizzying heights in the 1970s and ’80s, transforming a skinny neighborhood kid named Thomas Hearns into one of the most devastating punchers in the history of the ring.

In March 1972, Steward left Detroit Edison to become a full-time trainer/manager. Five years later, with the newly formed ESCOT (Emanuel Steward’s Champions of Tomorrow) Boxing Enterprises, Inc., he ventured into the world of professional boxing with an 18-year old slugger named Tommy Hearns. Hearns went on to win world titles in five different weight classes on his way to boxing immortality.

Steward’s reputation as a trainer grew by leaps and bounds after that, and with it grew the number of champions under his tutelage. In addition to the 50 plus world champions he has managed, he also developed six gold medal winners for the 1984 U.S. Olympic Team, including Pernell Whitaker, Mark Breland, Terrell Biggs, Jerry Page, Frank Tate and Steve McCrory. He mentored a gallery of supporting champs over the years, including Hilmer Kenty, Jimmy Paul, Duane Thomas, Dennis Andries, Steve McCrory, Milton McCrory, Michael Moorer, Lennox Lewis and present-day heavyweight king Wladimir Klitschko, whom Steward was training until he recently fell ill.

Klitschko, in a statement, said: “It is not often that a person in any line of work gets a chance to work with a legend. … I was privileged enough to work with one for almost a decade. I will miss our time together.”

Steward continued to work with the young fighters at the Kronk Boxing Gym, in which he has found a new home in Oakland County opening in 2009′ He is a welcome addition as expert commentator to HBO’s World Championship Boxing and HBO Pay-Per-View coverage.

Joni Mitchell was partially correct: We (sometimes) don’t know what we’ve got until it’s gone. This has been true with regrettable frequency this year with the deaths of multiple fighters and notable figures in boxing. In many cases we mourn people whose names might not have passed through our lips in quite some time, as befitting the nature of a sport in which those no longer in the spotlight are left to fade away quietly.

That does not mean their losses mean less.

We paid just tribute to Corrie Sanders, for example, whose imprint had been left on us following his brief ascent toward the top of the sport when he had summarily dispatched of Wladimir Klitschko in less than two rounds, and whose battles with Vitali Klitschko and Hasim Rahman had been valiant even though he was not victorious.

And we gave due respect to Angelo Dundee, the famed trainer who had been in the corner of two of the United States’ most acclaimed boxers in Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard, who had worked with several others, and who had long been established as a piece of living history.

There was no mental separation with Emanuel Steward, however. He was here, and now he is gone. His death hits particularly hard. It’s not just because of how quickly he passed away, but also because we knew what we had with him — because of how long he had held such a strong and positive influence on the sport.

It is a big loss for boxing. He is being justly eulogized and canonized with every story, every recollection, every reflection.
It is only natural for many of these memories to be of the personal variety. That is the frame of reference that helps give a life full context. Steward’s 68 years on this earth did not just bring about his individual accomplishments. In that time he also left his mark on so many who knew him, be it for a moment or for decades, and be they boxers, his colleagues or the many in the media with whom he had corresponded.

There were the world champions. Taking a boxer to a title belt seems less of a feat in this era of four major sanctioning bodies. Take into consideration, then, his longevity and consistency. Steward brought his first contender to the top in 1980 with lightweight Hilmer Kenty and continued to do so for three decades, guiding Cornelius Bundrage to a claim of the junior middleweight division in 2010.
“In all, Steward managed over 50 world champions. “In that regard, Steward is the most decorated trainer in history; Freddie Roach has guided 25 titlists while [Eddie] Futch and Ray Arcel seconded 22 and 19, respectively, during their much more restrictive eras.” said boxing historian Lee Groves last week on RingTV.com.

He didn’t just groom talent, but attracted it, too, with boxers turning to Steward to make them better. His was an expert eye, a trusted voice, a guru who they believed could rebuild those who had been destroyed and who could cap off those who were nearly complete.
Boxing is a business. And so many of the tributes to Steward have noted how he became a “hired gun” for some boxers. Where he truly stood out, however, is in the men he groomed, both in the Kronk Gym that became synonymous with his name and in the relationships he forged with those fighters.

Andy Lee had lived with Steward since 2006, the middleweight told Dan Rafael of ESPN.com last week.

“He likes to keep an eye on his fighters,” Lee said. “I was going into a home environment at the house.”

For once, boxing wasn’t just about money or fame, but about men who became family. Thomas Hearns described Steward as “the father he never had,” while speaking last week to Lem Satterfield of RingTV.com.

“He helped me to become the man that I’ve become today,” Hearns said. “He taught me right from wrong, and he taught me about living. So with Emanuel Steward, our relationship wasn’t just about boxing to me.”

The truly great in this world earn such stature not just with the big things, but with the little things as well. Roy Jones Jr. spoke on HBO this past weekend of how he had turned down an offer to work with Steward when he first turned pro and opted instead to work with his father. Yet the fact that Steward had approached him left an imprint on the young Olympian. Now nearly 25 years into his pro career, Jones said he still carries a Kronk Gym bag with him.

Several journalists wrote last week of their relationships with Steward, of his responsibility in returning calls, of his generosity in the time he would give them, of the stories he would tell them. These were traits that writers do not take for granted.
These all were traits, professional and personal, that will leave a lasting legacy: He made Hall of Fame fighters. He had a Hall of Fame career. He seemed to personify an honor that is rare in what can be a brutal sport and a cutthroat business.
It pains everyone who knew him and loved him to have to speak or write the words that pay tribute to him. He deserves them all, but he didn’t deserve to die so soon.

The first public inkling of his declining health came in September, when the HBO commentator — another role in which he earned respect — missed two straight broadcasts due to an undisclosed illness. No one publicly disclosed just how serious Steward’s situation was. But the word began to spread about the grim diagnosis.
Less than two months later, he’s gone.

We knew what Emanuel Steward brought to this world. We know just how much we’ll be missing now that he has passed. It’s often said that you make your mark by what you leave behind.

Emanuel Steward left behind more than many — and that is why we are left with such sorrow in our hearts. His loss is truly our loss.
Here are some remembrances of Steward:

Thomas Hearns, a world champion in six weight classes, and his son, Ronald Hearns, were shattered by the news that Steward had died.

“Emanuel was like a daddy to me,” the older Hearns said. “The man literally changed my life. I loved him and respected him so much.”

Ronald Hearns, also a fighter, grew up around Steward and his father at Kronk Gym.

“It’s crushing,” the younger Hearns said. “Emanuel always made me feel like one of the family. Emanuel loved me. He always told me that God has a plan for you. I’m feeling so sad right now.”

Business Manager and friend Abdul-Jalil said “You were, are and always will be the BEST EVER!!! Even Ali will give you his title the “GOAT” Greatest of All Times! My heartfelt love to Marie, Sylvia, Sylvette, Anita, Diane and Lavern. I am truly honored to have had you all in my life with Manny!”

“Boxing has suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Emanuel Steward. Vitali and I, along with the entire Team Klitschko, send our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Emanuel’s family and friends.
It is not often that a person in any line of work gets a chance to work with a legend, well I was privileged enough to work with one for almost a decade. I will miss our time together. The long talks about boxing, the world, and life itself. Most of all I will miss our friendship.
My team and I will carry on with the goals we had set while Emanuel was with us because that is exactly what Emanuel would have wanted. I know he will be with us in spirit along the way and we will accomplish these goals in his honor.
Rest in peace Emanuel. You will be greatly missed. Until we meet again my friend.”
-Wladimir Klitschko

“It brings me great grief and sadness to hear of the passing of one of the best and most respected trainers of this era, Emanuel Steward. I learned a lot from him during our professional relationship and I will be forever grateful for his help during that time. We were also friends and I know I am going to miss him as so many others will too. He was an important part of our boxing community.”
– Oscar De La Hoya

“I’m completely devastated by the passing of my long time friend, mentor and trainer Emanuel “Manny” Steward. Manny has helped me get through some of the biggest fights in my career and I only regret that I couldn’t return the favor and see him through his biggest fight.
We’ve maintained a close relationship and the last time we spoke he seemed his usual upbeat self so it was very disturbing to hear about his illness and rapid decline. It is with a heavy heart that realization of what I hoped were just rumors are now in fact true. Manny always told me I was the best, but the truth is, HE was the best and I’m grateful, privileged and honored to be counted among his many historic successes.
This has been a very tragic year for the boxing world, but today we’ve truly lost one of it’s crown jewels. Manny was giving, selfless, compassionate and stern. He always gave back to the community and never forgot where he came from. He was an institution unto himself and I’m proud to have had him in my corner for so many years.
I’m extremely grateful for the time that I was given with him and he will be severely missed by all who knew and loved him. I’ll miss his smile, his frank no holds barred truthfulness and our discussions on boxing and life. My prayers and condolences go out to his family at this very difficult time.
-Lennox Lewis

One of Steward’s longtime friends, is heartbroken by his passing. “Twenty-four hours have gone by since the passing of Emanuel Steward. It has been and remains an emotionally painful time dealing with this loss,” Buffer said. “I am still unable to actually speak without choking up. The comments and statements of admiration and respect, honoring and memorializing his life, legacy and career have been honest, beautiful and deserving. He was and shall always be true boxing royalty. But to those of us blessed to have been closer he was so very much more. As a fan and colleague, I mourn the loss of a legend, an icon. As a friend, I have lost a loved one and my heart is broken.”
-Ring announcer Michael Buffer

“There are no adequate words to describe the enormous degree of sadness and loss we feel at HBO Sports with the tragic passing of Manny Steward. For more than a decade, Manny was a respected colleague who taught us so much not only about the sweet science but also about friendship and loyalty. His energy, enthusiasm and bright smile were a constant presence. Ten bells do not seem enough to mourn his passing. His contributions to the sport and to HBO will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.” -Ken Hershman, President, HBO Sports

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the legendary Emanuel Steward today. Not only was Emanuel one of the most esteemed and accomplished boxing trainers in the history of the sport, he was also an incredibly generous and warm-hearted human being. In addition to his many professional pursuits, Emanuel served as a life coach to countless young men and women, particularly in his beloved adopted hometown of Detroit, and through them his legacy will live on. Those who were fortunate enough to have known Emanuel will remember him for his infectious enthusiasm, ever-present smile and seemingly limitless generosity. We extend our deepest condolences to the Steward family during this difficult time. He will be missed by everyone his spirit touched.”
– Stephen Espinoza, Showtime

“Steward and many of his Kronk protégé were fixtures in the infancy of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING in the late 1980’s. Over the years, we became close personal friends. He will be missed by all of us in the sport. Moreover, the sport will miss what he embodied in boxing–everything that is good and right about this business. It’s a terrible shame that his life was cut short. Men like Emanuel Steward are irreplaceable.”
-David Dinkins, Jr., Showtime TV

Emanuel Steward passing today is biggest loss to boxing in long time. he’ll be greatly missed. my thoughts prayers are w his family
– Freddie Roach, Legendary Boxing Trainer

Now that his sister has confirmed it we can say that Manny Steward has passed away. I am numb as are so many others who call him friend.
-Al Bernstein, Boxing Announcer