The V Foundation uses NIL deals with NC State women’s basketball team to beat cancer
NC State and The V Foundation for Cancer Research have a special relationship because it was founded by ESPN and legendary Wolfpack coach Jim Valvano. Now NC State and The V Foundation have partnered through NIL agreements to raise money and awareness for breast cancer research during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
The partnerships with members of the NC State women’s basketball team have already raised more than $5,200, according to a spokesperson with Pack of Wolves, the NC State collective that facilitated the NIL deals and got the fundraiser off the ground.
“This collaboration combines two areas our family is very passionate about, Wolfpack sports and the V Foundation’s work in cancer research,” Matt Hong, former COO of Turner Sports and Pack of Wolves Advisory Board Member told On3.
“We’re also excited to serve as a test case for other businesses or individuals to partner with NC State athletes to use their Name, Image and Likeness to raise awareness and money for a good cause. Being able to support impactful organizations like the V Foundation is an attractive new benefit of the Pack of Wolves NIL platform.”
Leaders at The V Foundation are excited about the success of the campaign so far and hopefully, more money can be generated before the end of the month.
“We’re excited and thankful to have top-notch student-athletes using their platforms to benefit breast cancer research,” said Shane Jacobson, CEO of the V Foundation. “We are united as one team with a common goal of accelerating breast cancer research to find a cure for this disease.”
Raising funds perfect example of using NIL for good
Members of the NC State women’s basketball team have been extremely active in the Raleigh community and on social media helping raise funds for the good cause. Every member of the squad has posted donation requests on their accounts, and some have even ventured out into local areas to help generate more donations.
It’s another perfect example of ways NIL can be used to do good.
“This disease has impacted many of my close friends and family,” NC State center Camille Hobby told On3. “I want to make a difference in the lives of others in their battle against cancer. It’s going to take everyone’s support and dedication to stop breast cancer in its tracks.”
Furthermore, NC State guard Saniya Rivers – a former five-star prospect and the 2021 Gatorade National Player of the Year – said the fundraiser is a really big deal for her.
“Unfortunately, I know a lot of people, both family and friends, that have been affected by cancer,” she told On3. “It breaks my heart. Cancer is awful! Being a part of this campaign gives me the opportunity to educate others on cancer and research and how they can help. I’m learning a lot, too.
“I know that one in every eight women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Cancer doesn’t discriminate, which is why I feel it’s so important for everyone to be aware and support this campaign.”
Each player on the NC State women’s basketball roster has their own donation page on The V Foundation website. Here are some of the key links you can use to donate:
- River Baldwin
- Jada Boyd
- Jakia Brown-Turner
- Mimi Collins
- Sophie Hart
- Madison Hayes
- Camille Hobby
- Diamond Johnson
- Niya Rivers
- Jessica Timmons
Pack of Wolves doing big things
Pack of Wolves, which is operated by Blueprint Sports, grabbed national headlines in August when it provided NIL deals to all members of the NC State football team. But collective leaders have been actively striking deals with members of all of the top sports at NC State.
Plus, they also recently launched the newly formed non-profit Belltower NIL collective to provide an exclusive non-profit focus for student-athletes and the community. Contributions to Belltower NIL will be tax deductible and help raise awareness for philanthropic partners by pairing them with N.C. State student-athletes.
Additionally, several charities have already signed on to the growing family of charitable organizations within the Belltower collective. The groups include:
- GiGi’s Playhouse
- The Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake County
- Dress for Success Triangle N.C.
- The Harrelson Center
- The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina.