Commitment to NIL Success
Washington State strives to provide all student-athletes with the opportunity to thrive in the new NIL era of college athletics. We have built our Cougar Pursuit NIL program around three values:
at Washington State

Investing directly in our NIL efforts through the Cougar Athletic Fund offers a tax-deductible way to make a meaningful impact on WSU Athletics. Your support helps our coaches build competitive rosters and ensures Cougar programs remain leaders in the Pac-12.
Cougar Collective has provided NIL opportunities for over 200 WSU student-athletes. Through memberships, one-time gifts, and unique programs like the 1890 Club, you help Cougs thrive on the field, in the classroom, and beyond. Every contribution strengthens WSU Athletics and keeps us competitive.
For businesses ready to partner directly with student-athletes, Playfly Max brings your NIL ideas to life — from concept to campaign. Whether it’s social media, appearances, or custom activations, we’ll help your brand connect authentically with Cougar Nation. Contact Nick Garner to get started.
Washington State strives to provide all student-athletes with the opportunity to thrive in the new NIL era of college athletics. We have built our Cougar Pursuit NIL program around three values:
As one of the first universities to hire a full-time NIL staff member, we will continue to strive to provide innovative and informational educational opportunities to help student-athletes and businesses to maximize their potential in this space.
We will create an environment that encourages student-athletes to grow and elevate their opportunities.
We provide student-athletes with the necessary resources and support to safely navigate this new space.
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) is an opportunity for student-athletes to receive compensation through activations of their personal brand—including, but not limited to, endorsements, appearances, and autographs.
College athletics has changed—and NIL is now essential to staying competitive. Whether we love it or not, NIL is part of the game. But here’s the truth: NIL isn’t just about keeping up; it’s about giving our Cougs every chance to excel—not only on the field, but in the classroom, in their communities, and in life beyond sports.
NIL helps our student-athletes benefit from the hard work, leadership, and character they bring to Washington State every day. They earn this opportunity. It gives them a fair shot to grow while representing the strength, heart, and integrity of WSU.
At a time when financial opportunity is a crucial factor in student-athlete recruitment and retention, providing NIL opportunities is a requirement to be competitive. When we support NIL, we’re doing more than funding athletics—we’re investing in the future of our university. Strong Cougar teams lift the entire WSU family, boosting pride, enrollment, and the national visibility that makes Washington State shine.
By investing directly to NIL through the Cougar Athletic Fund, Cougar Collective, or engaging in direct deals with student-athletes through Playfly Max, our fans, alumni, and donors can directly contribute to WSU Athletics’ success on the field of play. Athletics is the front porch of WSU, and together, we keep that porch open and bright
"I am so thankful for the opportunity to participate in the Cougar Collective at WSU. As a student-athlete, the ability to meet and partner with businesses who care about supporting WSU athletics has already enhanced my experience as a Coug. Beyond financial support through NIL opportunities, I am having fun getting more connected to the community. This program is helping me grow a professional network and build job skills that I will use in my future career."
"I think NIL has been a great addition for student-athletes all around the country. Giving players the opportunity to not only be paid for their hard work and dedication, but to also become involved with so many businesses and individuals that have great value outside of the game of football. I hope that NIL continues to trend in a positive and beneficial direction for all parties involved for many years to come!"
"Working with Good Molecules has been such a great experience. I really appreciate that their products are affordable, clean, and transparent; values that I truly connect with. I love that they support student-athletes like me in a genuine way. NIL has opened incredible opportunities to partner with brands that reflect who I am, both on and off the field. It’s more than just promoting products; it’s about building real relationships and sharing things I actually use and believe in. I encourage every student-athlete to explore NIL and enjoy the process!"