'Sissy Blue' Ed Orgeron comment could land UCLA players money

Ed Orgeron’s ‘sissy blue’ comment may have been a dig at UCLA, but it’s taken on a life of its own since. Now, it’s become a rallying cry for the Bruins — one that could net them some serious money.

David Witzling, the Bruins fan who was the recipient of Orgeron’s “sissy blue” response, is raising money for the players by selling T-shirts bearing the now-famous slogan, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Witzling bought the domain sissyblue.com, and now is taking orders for shirts expected to sell for between $20 and $30. UCLA’s next game isn’t until Sept. 18th against Fresno State, and he hopes to have the shirts ready before then.

According to Witzling, the players would receive 100% of the proceeds off the sales via new name, image and likeness rules if they promoted the shirts on any social media platform of their choosing.

“The idea is to have the pot divided between eligible student-athletes,” said Witzling per the Los Angeles Times. “These NIL deals, they’re kind of few and far between, so if there can be more of them, everyone benefits.”

Instead of benefitting a singular player like most NIL deals do, the ‘sissy blue’ campaign would be fruitful for everyone. Moreover, it’s a change of pace from what we’ve seen since NIL came to pass.

Furthermore, Wintzling is ensuring his team takes the necessary steps to get the shirts out the correct way. A sea of ‘sissy blue’ t-shirts at UCLA’s next game could create a legendary moment.

“The whole intent is to do this right way,” Witzling said. “We’re being quick but not hurrying.”

‘In your sissy blue shirt’

It all started with a chance encounter prior to LSU’s matchup with UCLA, where Orgeron responded to Witzling attempting to rile the coach up. A locked-in Orgeron showcased his passion, responding with the now famous quote.

 “Bring your ass on, in your sissy blue shirt,” Orgeron shouted.

Since then, UCLA has used the phrase to troll Orgeron online following their win. From Twitter headers to Tik Toks, even Lane Kiffin laughed at the Bruins not letting Orgeron forget about his words.

While he now recognizes the potential in monetizing the idea, Witzling mentioned that it never crossed his mind until he realized how much buzz was created, and that he could help benefit UCLA players.

“Looking at everybody online, there was comment after comment that they wanted their sissy blue shirt,” Witzling said. “This has gotten significant attention and it can do a lot of good for some great student-athletes.”

If UCLA can keep winning, the ‘Sissy Blue’ movement will continue to take on a life of its own for the Bruins.