SMU Basketball star Samuell Williamson partnered with Progage to handle his NIL deals when he transferred from Louisville. The hometown hero is a part of a new era for the Mustangs Basketball program, and now, he’s CUTS newest athlete as well.
Williamson announced his partnership launch with CUTS this week, securing a special discount for his followers in the process.
“Sam is such an easy athlete to work with and root for,” said Kyle Fenner, CEO and Co-founder of Progage. “We’re thrilled to have secured this partnership with CUTS for Sam, and look forward to creating more great content in the coming months.”
In the video, produced by Progage, Samuell specifically mentions that the shirts are “quickly becoming my favorite.” Authenticity is an important factor for Samuell and every sponsor that he partners with. CUTS devotion to quality and being the best mirrors Williamson’s own goals.
"CUTS is thrilled to be partnering with Sam," said Danny Holdsman, Athlete Relations Coordinator for CUTS. "He's a natural fit with our mission, both on and off the court, and we have supreme confidence in this being a mutually beneficial partnership for a long time to come."
The deal adds to a growing NIL trend within apparel and accessories brands. According to our friends at Sponsor United, apparel and accessories lead the way in terms of total NIL deals signed with collegiate athletes. Companies like Adidas, American Eagle, and more are seeing online engagements skyrocket, encouraging more brands to utilize these athletes with devoted followings.
For Williamson, the partnership adds to an already impressive portfolio that includes deals with Sam’s Club, BoJangles, and more.
Progage came to life in early 2021, when NFL football player Kaden Smith and entrepreneur Kyle Fenner came together to create a sports marketing agency focused on helping brands win via creative storytelling and social media marketing.