Below are the top NIL headlines from March 20th:

Topps Brings March Madness Trading Cards to the Forefront

Bowman U Now Expands into Tournament Moments Topps has announced a partnership with the NCAA to produce March Madness trading cards, marking a significant expansion for their Bowman U Now series. This initiative will capture the biggest moments from both the Men's and Women's NCAA tournaments in real-time, offering fans a unique way to commemorate the action. Previously, Bowman U Now focused on debuts, major games, and milestones in college sports, but now it will highlight pivotal tournament performances.

Celebrating Star Power and Cinderella Stories 

The trading card series will feature prominent athletes like Cooper Flagg and JuJu Watkins, but it will also celebrate the iconic "Cinderella" moments that define March Madness. This approach allows collectors to own pieces of history, such as a card commemorating a stunning upset or a record-breaking performance. These cards not only capture the players but also the emotional and historical significance of the tournament.

The Value of Bowman U Now Cards in the Secondary Market 

For many college athletes, Bowman U Now cards hold significant value in the collector's market. Cooper Flagg's cards, for example, have seen high sales, with rare autographed and relic cards fetching thousands of dollars. Similarly, JuJu Watkins' cards are highly sought after, with some selling for thousands, reflecting her status as a future WNBA star. Caitlin Clark's cards have also commanded high prices, showing the strong demand for cards featuring standout college athletes.

Capturing the Essence of March Madness for Collectors 

Topps' venture into March Madness trading cards aims to capture the excitement and unpredictability of the tournament for collectors. By featuring both star athletes and memorable moments, these cards offer a unique way to preserve and celebrate the history of college basketball. The success of this initiative will depend on its ability to resonate with collectors both during and after the tournament.

Mike Repole's NIL Investment Fuels St. John's Resurgence

Billionaire Alum Mike Repole has significantly contributed to the St. Johns basketball program's revitalization through substantial NIL investments. His financial support played a crucial role in attracting Rick Pitino as head coach and building a competitive roster. 

Strategic NIL Funding and Recruiting Success

Repole provides the financial resources necessary for Pitino to secure desired players, without direct involvement in recruiting decisions. This strategic approach has yielded impressive results, with St. John's achieving notable success, including a recent Big East tournament championship and a 2 seed in the NCAA tournament.

Financial Investment and Team Building Dynamics 

Reports indicate that St. John's invested approximately $4 million in its current team, aligning with the financial demands of top-tier college basketball programs. Pitino told reporters, “In some respects, it makes my job easier; in some respects, it doesn’t. I probably will never go to a young man’s home again. We just go straight to the negotiating table at St. John’s.” Success relies on a holistic approach, prioritizing player character and team chemistry.

Debunking the Myth of NIL as the Sole Factor 

St. John's officials stress that NIL alone did not build the team. They highlight the importance of player character and strategic team composition. The success of players like RJ Luis Jr. and Zuby Ejiofor, who were reportedly "underpaid," underscores that talent and team dynamics are equally crucial. Repole's financial support provides a foundation, but the team's success is a result of a multifaceted approach.

March Madness NIL Opportunities: Cinderella Stories and Women Athletes Shine

Cinderella Stories Capitalize on Unexpected Fame 

March Madness offers unique NIL opportunities for players who emerge as "Cinderella" stories. Unlike pre-established stars, these breakout players can capture the attention of brands looking for fresh, compelling narratives.

The Power of Unforeseen Success 

NIL experts emphasize that the tournament's biggest financial opportunities lie with players who gain sudden prominence. Brands allocate budget for these "diamonds in the rough," recognizing the potential for impactful partnerships. This highlights the dynamic nature of NIL, where unexpected success can lead to substantial earnings.

Opendorse's Perspective on Emerging Talent 

Steve Denton, CEO of Opendorse, points out that while top-tier athletes have secured deals, March Madness is where new stars emerge. Brands are advised to reserve funds for these unexpected performers, who can generate significant buzz and engagement. Opendorse's platform facilitates these connections, helping athletes monetize their newfound fame.

Women's College Athletes Lead in NIL Earnings 

Women's college athletes are excelling in the NIL space, often outearning their male counterparts. Their strong social media presence and consistent performance contribute to their high marketability. The average women's basketball team has significantly more followers than the average men's team, demonstrating their powerful influence.

The Economic Impact of Women's Sports 

Women athletes receive a substantial portion of advertising dollars, proving their effectiveness as a media platform. Their consistent presence and engagement with fans create a strong return on investment for brands. This trend is seen as a "great equalizer," allowing athletes in non-revenue sports to compete financially.

Long-Term Fandom and Continued Growth

The consistency of women's college athletes, compared to the "one-and-done" nature of many male athletes, fosters long-term fandom and brand loyalty. Experts predict that women's NIL earnings will continue to grow, reflecting their increasing influence and market value. The rise of women’s sports in the NIL era is a long overdue and welcome shift.