Texas Tech University alumnus and NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes has officially partnered with the university to launch the “Team Mahomes” Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiative. The ground-breaking program, in collaboration with Mahomes’ long-time apparel partner adidas, is set to provide an estimated $70 million in NIL opportunities for current and future Red Raider student-athletes over the next decade.
This unprecedented initiative, announced at a press conference on the Texas Tech campus, builds on the strong partnership between Mahomes, the university, and adidas.
It’s a bold statement that solidifies Texas Tech’s position as a leader in the new era of college sports. The “Team Mahomes” fund is designed to be more than just a pool of money; it’s a comprehensive platform that will empower student-athletes with the tools they need to succeed both on and off the field.
“Texas Tech believed in me when not a lot of people did,” Mahomes said in a video message to attendees. “This is about giving back to a place that shaped who I am and making sure today’s Red Raiders get every chance to succeed and build a future. We want to attract the best talent in the country and give them a competitive edge.”
The $70 million figure will be unlocked through a multifaceted approach, combining direct contributions from a fund created by Mahomes and his foundation, a percentage of sales from exclusive “Team Mahomes” branded apparel and merchandise from adidas, and a strategic collective of donors and corporate partners. The financial framework is designed to be sustainable, ensuring that the opportunities continue for years to come, a key differentiator from many short-term NIL collectives.
The inaugural class of “Team Mahomes” athletes has already been signed, representing a diverse group of sports. This first wave includes five-star freshman football wide receiver Micah Hudson, standout softball pitcher NiJaree Canady, women’s basketball star Jasmine Shavers, men’s golfer Matthew Comegys, women’s soccer player Sam Courtwright, and baseball player TJ Pompey. These athletes will be featured in marketing campaigns, participate in fan engagement events, and contribute to Mahomes’ signature adidas line.
Kirby Hocutt, Texas Tech’s Director of Athletics, praised the initiative as a “game-changer.” “The creation of Team Mahomes further positions Texas Tech Athletics as a national leader in NIL,” Hocutt stated.
“This wouldn’t be possible without a tremendous partner in adidas that believes strongly in investing in our student-athletes under the Patrick Mahomes brand.” The partnership with adidas, a 10-year deal signed last year, serves as the foundation for this new venture, with co-branded apparel already a staple for Red Raider fans.
What sets the “Team Mahomes” initiative apart is its emphasis on professional development. In addition to financial compensation, the program will provide student-athletes with training in financial literacy, brand management, and media relations.
A mentorship program will connect athletes with successful Texas Tech alumni in various industries, helping them build career networks far beyond their playing days.6 This holistic approach ensures that athletes are not just earning money but are also learning to manage their personal brands for long-term success.
The initiative also includes a broader reach beyond the initial group of signed athletes.7 All eligible Texas Tech student-athletes can join the adidas NIL Ambassador Network, allowing them to earn from their name, image, and likeness by promoting products and campaigns. This “rising tide lifts all boats” philosophy demonstrates a commitment to the entire athletic department, not just high-profile sports.
Mahomes’ involvement is a testament to his unwavering loyalty to his alma mater. Even after leaving a year early for the NFL Draft, he has remained a fierce supporter, attending games and making significant contributions to the university’s athletic facilities.
His presence, coupled with this new NIL initiative, will be a powerful recruiting tool for Texas Tech, attracting top-tier talent from across the country.
The sports world has been buzzing with speculation about what the next phase of NIL will look like. With the “Team Mahomes” initiative, Mahomes and Texas Tech have provided a clear and compelling answer, setting a new standard for how elite alumni can partner with their universities to empower the next generation of student-athletes. This isn’t just about paying players; it’s about building a sustainable ecosystem for success.