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BREAKING NEWS: W.V. Mountaineers Star Javon Small Seals $66 Million Endorsement Deal, Donates $10 Million to Program
Morgantown, WV – May 22, 2025
In a groundbreaking move that is set to reshape the landscape of college athletics, West Virginia Mountaineers basketball sensation Javon Small has signed a historic $66 million endorsement deal, marking one of the largest Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements in collegiate sports history. In a show of gratitude and commitment to the program that nurtured his talent, Small has pledged $10 million of that sum as a donation to West Virginia University’s basketball program.
The senior guard, widely recognized as one of the most electrifying players in college basketball, finalized the deal late Tuesday night with a global athletic apparel giant, sources confirm. The agreement spans four years and includes a combination of apparel campaigns, branded content, digital appearances, community partnerships, and exclusive merchandise.
“This is about more than basketball,” said Small at a press conference held at the WVU Coliseum. “It’s about legacy, empowerment, and giving back to the university and the fans who believed in me from day one. West Virginia made me who I am, and I want to help make sure the next generation of Mountaineers has even more opportunities than I did.”
A Meteoric Rise
Javon Small’s journey to this milestone has been nothing short of inspirational. Originally from South Bend, Indiana, Small transferred to West Virginia after a promising stint at East Carolina and a breakout season at Oklahoma State. Under head coach DerMarr Johnson, Small emerged as the undisputed leader of the Mountaineers, averaging 20.3 points, 6.8 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game during the 2024–2025 season.
His high basketball IQ, clutch performances, and court charisma drew national attention. Small quickly became a household name, landing on the cover of multiple sports magazines and earning First Team All-Big 12 honors. He led the Mountaineers to an unexpected Sweet 16 appearance, igniting excitement in Morgantown and elevating the program’s profile on the national stage.
The Deal That Changed the Game
Industry insiders are calling Small’s endorsement agreement a watershed moment for the evolving NIL era. While high-value deals have become increasingly common, none have matched the scale and scope of this one for a college basketball player.
The agreement was brokered by a Los Angeles-based sports marketing firm and includes a revenue-sharing clause that allows Small to earn royalties on a custom apparel line branded under his name. The deal also provides funding for youth basketball clinics across West Virginia, part of a broader philanthropic campaign launched by Small and his team.
“It’s not just a deal—it’s a partnership,” said Alicia Torres, vice president of athlete branding at the firm. “Javon’s marketability, authenticity, and commitment to community make him a unique figure in college sports. This is a new blueprint for what NIL can be.”
Giving Back: $10 Million for the Mountaineers
In a surprise move that stunned fans and school officials alike, Small announced that he will be donating $10 million to the WVU basketball program. The funds will be used to upgrade training facilities, enhance player development programs, and create scholarships for underprivileged student-athletes.
“I’ve seen what this program can do when it has the right resources,” said Small. “This is an investment in our future—a way to say thank you and to make sure West Virginia keeps climbing.”
WVU athletic director Wren Baker expressed deep gratitude. “What Javon has done here is unprecedented. His generosity and vision for this program speak volumes about the kind of leader he is. This donation will have a lasting impact on our university and our student-athletes.”
Reactions Pour In
Social media exploded following the announcement, with #JavonSmall trending nationally. NBA stars, college coaches, and sports analysts chimed in, praising the 6’2” guard not only for his game but for his heart.
ESPN’s Jay Bilas tweeted: “Javon Small is setting the standard for what today’s college athlete can be—elite talent, business-minded, and deeply committed to his community.”
Fans in Morgantown gathered outside the Coliseum late into the night, waving banners and chanting Small’s name. Many took the opportunity to reflect on what his impact has meant to the state.
“Javon gave us hope,” said longtime Mountaineers supporter Debra Mays. “He showed that you don’t have to come from the biggest program or the biggest city to do big things.”
What’s Next?
With his final season at WVU behind him, Small is now preparing for the 2025 NBA Draft, where he is widely projected as a first-round pick. Despite his professional aspirations, he remains rooted in West Virginia, insisting that the state will always be a part of his story.
“I’ve still got work to do, but no matter where I go, I’ll carry the Mountaineers with me,” Small said.
A New Chapter for College Basketball
Javon Small’s historic deal and philanthropic move come at a pivotal time in the NIL era, as universities grapple with the fast-evolving economics of college sports. His example will likely inspire future athletes to leverage their platforms not just for personal gain but for broader impact.
In Small’s case, the message is clear: greatness isn’t just measured in points scored or deals signed, but in how you lift others as you rise.
As the echoes of “Let’s Go Mountaineers” ring through the hills of West Virginia, one thing is certain—Javon Small’s legacy has only just begun.
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