HAMPTON, Va. (October 24, 2024) – Hampton University proudly announces the launch of 68 Oak, the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Collective for Hampton Athletics. 68 Oak is designed to streamline support, making it easier for fans and donors to directly contribute to Hampton’s NIL efforts for our student-athletes.
This innovative collective not only helps Hampton athletes capitalize on NIL opportunities, but it also deepens the university’s commitment to teaching essential life skills and preparing students for their future careers. Additionally, 68 Oak will play a key role in recruiting and retaining top student-athletes, ensuring Hampton remains at the forefront of collegiate athletics.
“Since Name, Image, and Likeness became permissible over three years ago, Hampton University has fully embraced this opportunity, supporting our student-athletes in their NIL pursuits,” said Director of Athletics Anthony D. Henderson, Sr. “Today, we are proud to announce the official NIL platform for Hampton Athletics, the 68 Oak Collective. This collective will empower our athletic programs to capitalize on both current and future NIL opportunities, propelling Pirate Athletics forward as we compete for championships in this new era of NCAA Division 1 athletics.”
The 68 Oak Collective is committed to preparing student-athletes for life beyond sports by offering education in financial literacy, business skills, and access to local as well as national business opportunities. Through this initiative, athletes will build a strong foundation for their future, ensuring long-term success both on and off the field.
“This is a very exciting day for Hampton University, our students Athletes, our fans, and all alumni! We will provide financial resources and opportunities for future success on-and-off the field,” said Jeff Granger, the founder of the 68 Oak Collective. “Setting a learning curve that starts in college on how to manage and invest wisely will change lives as well as prepare these student-athletes for success with financial management and literacy while helping us close the wealth gap.”
Hampton University stands uniquely poised to lead in the NIL space, offering advantages that set us apart from other institutions. With a well-established national brand, Hampton provides its athletes with access to a vast network of business leaders and opportunities that extend far beyond the local market. This broad reach gives the Pirates a significant edge in navigating and thriving in the NIL world.
Calvin L. Butts, Jr., a member of the Hampton University Board of Trustees who was instrumental in the formation of the 68 Oak, said, “I am honored to kick off and seed 68 Oak with its first check. I urge our entire community – businesses, fans, and alumni – to join our team, invest in our student-athletes and be a part of something truly special. Collectively, we can see that Hampton University continues to grow and succeed for years to come. I can tell you firsthand how critical it has become in college athletics. It’s not just the future – it’s the present, and it’s here to stay.”
Board of Trustee member Derek Lewis, who played a key role in the establishment of the 68 Oak said, “What an excellent opportunity for fans to become engaged and participate in the lives and success of our student-athletes. They represent Hampton daily on-and-off the field and this will enable us to compete with schools and programs. The NIL program we have developed takes advantage of the tremendous richness of Hampton University’s academic offerings and will give every one of our student-athletes the opportunity to enhance their knowledge about personal marketing and how to accrue its benefits. Our program is grounded in education and will benefit our student-athletes now and for years after they graduate.”
Unlike other donor-based collectives that have a singular focus on a university’s marque team, 68 Oak is committed to a long-term goal of inclusivity for all men’s and women’s athletic programs at Hampton University. The collective is positioned to receive contributions from alumni and community-oriented supporters to assist Pirate student-athletes with NIL opportunities. Supporting 68 Oak benefits Hampton student-athletes in their pursuit of athletic and academic excellence.
For additional information please visit the 68 Oak website: www.68oak.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How do student-athletes benefit from NIL?
Athletes can benefit from NIL by endorsing products, signing sponsorship deals, engaging in commercial opportunities and monetizing their social media presence, among other avenues. .
What are the regulations surrounding NIL?
NCAA rules allow athletes to receive compensation for use of their NIL; however, NIL activities may not be used to compensate an athlete for athletics participation or achievement (i.e., pay-for-play). Regulations surrounding NIL also vary by jurisdiction and organization. Some state governments and schools have implemented rules allowing athletes to profit from their NIL, while others have restrictions or are in the process of developing policies.
How do NIL rights affect student-athletes?
NIL rights empower college athletes to earn income from business ventures and personal brand while still in school. This can provide financial support, enhance their marketability and foster entrepreneurial opportunities.
What are some examples of NIL activities?
Student-athletes have used their social media to endorse a brand or company, signed autographs, hosted camps or clinics and appeared in commercials for a product or company among many other opportunities that might be available in each student’s area.
