Parker Dean inks NIL deal
Purdue freshman, former Western hurler capitalizing on name, image, likeness under new rules
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NIL contracts are a little more than a year old, as it became effective July of 2021. Ever since, collegiate athletes all over the country have been able to receive compensation for anything that bears their NIL: Name, Image, and Likeness.
Kokomo native and former Western Panther Parker Dean is a freshman on the campus of Purdue University this fall. The 6’4”, 210 lbs. framed slinger is playing for the Boilermakers baseball team this coming season. He’s put in a tremendous amount of work into becoming a high-level Division I college baseball player, and that hard work continues to be the trend.
Recruited as a pitcher and a hitter, his training schedule is grueling. Before speaking with the three-quarter slot pitcher, he had just come fresh off a three- and half-hour practice. His work ethic is likely the reason Dean will benefit from the new NIL deal he just signed.
Dean had to complete the verification process to prove that he wasn’t just anyone trying to score a pay day. He explained the process.
“All you had to do was sign up, maybe took a minute or two,” said Dean. “It just asked my name, what sport I play, what school I went to, my jersey number, how many followers I have on all my social media, and all my handles. A couple days later they sent me a digital agreement.”
He described the NIL process as a sweet deal, stating, “They are going to put together my locker room for me.” His locker room will be a link for all to go and view all merchandise that is Parker Dean.
It appears to be a very convenient process, considering all athletes have going on in their daily lives. They will not have to be concerned with the production process of the merchandise, which is truly been made a quick and easy and stress-free.
“It’s super nice”, said Dean.
Dean is putting to rest some of the misconceptions about NIL deals, profoundly putting it into perspective.
“It’s not so much about getting kids all this money,” said Dean. “It’s about expanding your network, reaching out to businesses. You have an opportunity to create a profile that goes out to all immediate area business and even global businesses. If there is a business that I want to work with, it’s as simple as getting on the phone or sending them a message.”
Essentially what Dean is saying, NIL deals have given athletes a platform to pursue entrepreneurial endeavors and make career moves much earlier in their academic journey than ever before. There is a level of wisdom associated with being a member of the NIL community. You can certainly share information with others regarding your eligibility, however, it is highly discouraged to talk about how much money you are making.
That is just a life lesson for anyone not to disclose such sensitive information, but Dean made it clear that he would be smart about the whole thing. He shows levels of maturity that will play a vital role in his success all the way around. Fans are sure to hear of the many great things he will accomplish in his time at Purdue.