Pitt is taking a step forward in helping its student-athletes manage and profit from name, image and likeness opportunities.

University officials announced Monday a partnership with The Brandr Group, a brand management, marketing and licensing agency that counts more than 35 college programs among its clients.

“We support our student-athletes in all that they do,” athletic director Heather Lyke said in a statement, “and this innovative program will create opportunities with regional and national partners eager to work with Pitt student-athletes. They will have the chance to capitalize on their own NIL while Pitt fans will get to enjoy new options for officially-licensed merchandise.”

With this partnership, Pitt is looking forward to its student-athletes receiving enhanced opportunities to seek profit through their NIL and co-branding with the school’s official trademarks and logos.

Basketball coach Jeff Capel said educating his players began last year when the NCAA allowed NIL opportunities for student-athletes.

”We talked to them about it when everything was first passed back in July,” he said. “We’ve had educational sessions with our guys, the guys who are interested in it and want to try to figure it out.

“It’s not something we force on anyone. We had some guys who are interested in it and are pursuing some things and have been pursued.

”I think it’s a great opportunity for young people. I think it’s an opportunity for them to learn and figure out how to manage everything. But this is college athletics now. Everyone has to adjust to it and try to figure out as best as they can for their program and their guys.”

“Pitt has a storied tradition of athletic success, from the gridiron to the hardcourt, and it’s an honor to be able to support the student-athletes from this iconic brand,” said Len Stachitas, Chief Administrative Officer at The Brandr Group. “It’s a new day for student-athletes across the country, and this new partnership will empower those at Pitt to financially capitalize on their NIL, while also opening doors to creative ways to engage the Panthers’ passionate fan base.”

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