Bojangles Endorsement Deal Signed by HBCU Athlete

08.28.21
Bojangles Endorsement Deal Signed by HBCU Athlete (Photo: @kyupnext3 via Twitter)

After the NCAA ruled in June that student-athletes can profit off the use of their name, image and likeness, Ky’Wuan Dukes, a wide receiver at Johnson C. Smith University, became the first HBCU athlete to sign an endorsement deal with Bojangles. 

Bojangles said Dukes was a “natural fit” for the company, citing his North Carolina roots. Dukes, however, said the opportunity was nothing short of a blessing.

“It was definitely a great idea, (the) rule change,” Dukes said, according to Blavity. “I feel like that rule opens up a lot of opportunity for student-athletes financially and with exposure of helping build their brand, name, or whatever they’re trying to pursue. I appreciate the NCAA for letting that take place.”

Dukes said he was scrolling on Instagram and noticed a public relations company called VayneSports, who represents athletes, reached out to him.

Hercy Miller, the son of hip-hop mogul Percy “Master P” Miller, signed a $2 million endorsement deal following the NCAA rule change in June. Students from Jackson State University, Norfolk State University and Alabama A&M have also signed endorsement deals. 

Dukes said these opportunities will assist students whose families are struggling financially and are unable to provide for the athletes.

“It’s definitely a big help,” Dukes said, according to HBCU Buzz.  “Students that have parents that aren’t fortunate and don’t have things..now they can do it for themselves. This is definitely a good thing to happen for us.”

Support the Next Generation of Content Creators
Invest in the diverse voices that will shape and lead the future of journalism and art.
donate now
Support the Next Generation of Content Creators
Invest in the diverse voices that will shape and lead the future of journalism and art.
donate now