Athlete NIL Interviews: Keshawn Lynch
Could you share some of the NIL opportunities or partnerships you've been involved in?
The notable companies I have worked with are CVS, Hot Topic, Champion Films, Hey Dude, Liquid IV and C4 Energy. I also recently connected with a restaurant called Bubbas 33!
How did you identify and negotiate these opportunities?
Most of the time I either use an app like 98Strong, Postgame, and I recently used MOGL. I will reach out to most brands by email or messaging them or just word of mouth. The biggest thing is communication with the brand and knowing exactly what they want.
How has NIL impacted your daily life and responsibilities as a student-athlete?
I feel like NIL has impacted me a lot and helped me in a lot of ways. The biggest thing it has done for me is help me make connections and learn how to be a better businessman. It has taught me to be more organized. The way I carry myself on and off the field no longer reflects myself and my university, but also the brand that I represent.
Are there educational programs/tools/events that have helped you better understand the rules and opportunities related to NIL?
There are many tools that have helped me learn more about NIL. One main way is doing research online for brands that are looking to sponsor athletes. Another resource that’s helped me is newsletters that showed different athletes with brand deals. The other thing is asking my peer Rayqaun Smith “King of NIL” who helped me through a majority of this process with what to do and what to not to do when it comes to NIL.
How do you utilize social media platforms to build your personal brand and engage with your audience? Can you share examples of successful social media campaigns or content that helped promote your brand?
I use my social media to build my brand in many different ways. Being at a HBCU it is a platform to help teach people that have never heard of brands that I have worked with. I also try my best to use the collaboration tool on Instagram because then that mixes your following with whoever you're collaborating with. I also use my Instagram to promote myself because you never know who is watching you so you have to always look your best!
How have your NIL activities influenced your relationship with fans and supporters?
NIL activities have influenced my relationship with fans and supporters to give us something to bond over more than just sports. When I posted my first big deal which was Hey Dude, plenty of people were commenting on how nice and comfortable the shoes looked. It’s deeper than just posting a video, it’s about reaching an audience that you can connect with and build your brand. Having a brand that matches your supporters makes the partnership better for both sides involved.
What advice would you give to other student-athletes seeking to explore NIL opportunities?
The biggest thing is keep trying when you think you’ll never get a deal or no one wants to sponsor you. They actually do you have to take the time to find the right brand. The biggest thing is always be aggressive and eager to try to reach out to as many brands as possible even if you think they won't respond. The worst thing a brand can tell you is no and that no from that brand can be a yes from 10 other brands.
Is there a college athlete whose approach to NIL you admire? If yes, who and why?
The college athlete that I admire when it comes to NIL is the king of NIL himself, Rayqaun Smith. He put on for the HBCU culture. He also helped me get started with the whole process and it has helped me time and time again. I also look up to Leah Clapper. She is a gymnastic guru and a NIL guru. She has helped me improve my videos and Instagram profile. Sam Green has also been an amazing help. She has been all around when it comes to sports, helping athletes learn how to be more presentable, and never run out of ideas for sponsorships.
How has engaging in NIL activities contributed to your personal and professional growth? Have you discovered new interests or skills through NIL opportunities?
Engaging in NIL activities has allowed me to branch out and connect with different businesses, athletes, and industries. It has opened my eyes and expanded my network when it comes to being just an athlete. It has also helped me with my photography and communication skills.
How do you envision your career evolving after college?
After college I imagine helping others just like when I didn’t know what I was doing. I would like to help them reach more brands. Hopefully I make it to the NFL and still have connections with the brands I had in college. The biggest thing is helping others make the most of NIL and making a better brand and name for themselves.
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